Final answer:
George Washington advised the United States to steer clear of foreign affairs in order to preserve national independence, neutrality, and avoid internal divisions caused by political factions.
Step-by-step explanation:
George Washington advised the United States to 'steer clear of permanent alliances with any portion of the foreign world' in his Farewell Address in 1796. He believed that it was in the best interest of the country to avoid becoming entangled in the conflicts and affairs of other nations. Washington's decision was influenced by the relatively new United States and its fragile position in the world, as well as the risks that involvement in foreign affairs could pose to national unity and internal stability.
One reason for Washington's stance was the potential threat to the newly formed country's neutrality and the preservation of its independence. Involvement in foreign affairs could lead to the United States being dragged into conflicts that were not of its own making, risking the safety and sovereignty of the nation.
Another reason was the concern over political factions and their influence on foreign policy. Washington believed that foreign alliances could potentially divide the nation along partisan lines, undermining the unity and stability of the young republic.
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