61.1k views
4 votes
… It is our true policy to steer clear of permanent

alliances with any portion of the foreign world; so
far, I mean, as we are now at liberty to do it; for
let me not be understood as capable of
patronizing infidelity to existing engagements. I
hold the maxim [principle] no less applicable to
public than to private affairs, that honesty is
always the best policy. I repeat it, therefore, let
those engagements be observed in their genuine
sense. But, in my opinion, it is unnecessary and
would be unwise to extend them.…
— President George Washington,
Farewell Address, 1796
President Washington was offering this advice
because he believed
(1) the destiny of the United States was to rule
other countries
(2) the United States should seek alliances with
other nations
(3) alliances could draw the United States into
wars
(4) the United States should break its agreements
with France

User Mark Qian
by
7.7k points

2 Answers

4 votes

They did not want any other relations with other countries affairs .

Hope that helps.

User Gareoke
by
7.3k points
6 votes
President Washington was offering this advice because he believed "(3) alliances could draw the United States into wars" and the US was very isolationist during this time.
User BenTrofatter
by
7.9k points
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