He did not infringe upon the policy making powers that he felt the Constitution gave Congress. But the determination of foreign policy became preponderantly a Presidential concern. When the French Revolution led to a major war between France and England, Washington refused to accept entirely the recommendations of either his Secretary of State Thomas Jefferson, who was pro-French, or his Secretary of the Treasury Alexander Hamilton, who was pro-British. Rather, he insisted upon a neutral course until the United States could grow stronger.
Which is the central idea in this excerpt?
-The French Revolution led to a major war between France and England during Washington’s presidency.
-Washington followed a foreign policy of not taking sides in conflicts between other countries.
-Washington’s secretary of state was Thomas Jefferson and his secretary of the treasury was Alexander Hamilton.
-Washington’s understanding of the Constitution meant that he did not infringe on the powers of Congress.