Introduction
In 1796, United States president George Washington delivered a farewell address to the American people. In the letter, Washington advised and cautioned the people of America regarding the fundamental issue of safety and happiness (Washington, 1796). This letter marked a significant moment in America's history when a revolutionist surrendered power and took a break from the busy political life. The action of the president led to the establishment of the Grand Old Party, which consequently resulted in the formation of the Republican government. The president cautioned against the challenges of confronting a young nation (Washington, 1796). He described America as facing external challenges and internal factions. Not only did he wonder about the America's danger, but also hailed the promise of the nation. This promise was premised on the unity, purpose and prosperity that formed the character of the American people. Following the Declaration of Independence, this address underscores the purpose of the American people.
The need to foster peace and stability was the hallmark of the farewell address. The president cautioned that without enduring peace and cohesion, the gains of independence would not be thrown into jeopardy. Peace was a major factor in American life. The address themed on the need to preserve the Union. He perceived the Union as an element that would guarantee Americans peace and prosperity. In this regard, Washington desired that the American people would recognize the union as a unifier and shun sectionalism that would kill their shared interests. The address urged the American people to respect the ties that led to the formation of the Union (Washington, 1796). Washington asked the American people to respect the great name which belonged to them. He also prevailed upon the people to utilize their capacity to embrace patriotism. Apparently, the address formed the backdrop that inspires patriotism among American people. These people have demonstrated unusual love for their country in times of crisis and prosperity. Washington loved the unity of the American people so much that he warned of the danger of forming factions.
Young nations all over the world undergo integration test upon formation. The ability for a nation to hold together is tested by the capacity of her people to tolerate one another and cherish the ideals of nationhood. He warned against groups that may seek to pursue their interests while taking advantage of the positions of influence to the chagrin of the majority (Washington, 1796). In this regard, he cautioned against the vices that confront not only the United States but also other countries in the world. These problems include corruption, nepotism, and racism. A nation in which corruption towers was doomed to fail when people with vested interests hijack the greater national purpose. The division of the country into factions was condemned in the address (Ourdocuments.gov, n.d). One would think that Washington had envisioned a moment when the American family would face challenges of living in one, indivisible nation. While taking cognizance of the centrality of religion in shaping the morality and ethical standpoint of people, Washington emphasized the need for civic education and enlightenment among the citizens of the United States.
The president regarded religion and morality as the factors that lead to the inculcation of good ethical habits which may eventually translate into political prosperity. Without morality, the young nation would be in danger of the lack of it. Thus, the president prevailed upon men to recognize their fundamental duty of fostering families that live in happiness and harmony (UShistory.org, n.d). The address placed so much emphasis on religion and morality because the two terms help to achieve the sustainable objective of joy. Religious people cherish positive ideals and focus on living a life full of joy and happiness. Thus, there was a need for the young American nation to foster the ideals among her people. On liberty, Washington observed that America has a fundamental duty to preserve the freedom of one another. The liberty of every citizen was important in making the individual to realize their potential. In this regard, the president observed that the people charged with the administration of the country should be cautious of the thinking habits of people in a free country.
The greatest illustration of America's commitment to global leadership premises Washington's proposition regarding America's role in the world. The new nation needed to recognize her potential, and strategic position in the world and take the lead in shaping the world's globalization policy. The president reminded her people that the country should "observe faith and justice" while dealing with people of all nations (Washington, 1796). He reiterated that the country's place on the global stage would raise her standing and reaffirm her national character. Washington's commitment to a mightier nation was discernible from his writing. He recommended that America should have increased economic engagements with many countries and reduce her political commitments.
Conclusion
President Washington was very hopeful about the promise of America. His enduring love and determination to see America rise buttresses the fundamental idea of the American people. Perhaps, the commitment by Washington to see the United States lead the world in technology, military strength, and the economy, is what propels the individuals seeking positions of leadership in the country to devote their time to serving the people. The spirit of leadership that Washington embodied inspires many Americans to take charge of various duties and obligations. This proposition explains why Washington called for more economic engagements rather than political commitments. The United States is currently the largest economy in the world. Washington's address could be an ingredient that spurred this rise.
References
Ourdocuments.gov. (n.d). President George Washington’s Farewell Address (1796).
Retrieved from http://www.ourdocuments.gov/doc.php?flash=false&doc=15
UShistory.org. (n.d.). Farewell Address. Retrieved from
http://www.ushistory.org/us/17d.asp
Washington, G. (1796, September 19). Farewell Address. The Heritage Foundation.
Retrieved from http://www.heritage.org/initiatives/first-principles/primary-sources/washingtons-farewell-address
