LAD #7: Washington's Farewell Address

          In George Washington's farewell address, he says that he is not leaving because of problems, but because he is ready to leave. He wanted to give a proper farewell and hoped Americans would not be angered by his decision to step down. Stepping down at this time was not a big deal seeing as the country was in a good place. Also the years in politics made him welcoming retirement. He states that he owes Americans a lot of gratitude for what they have given him and he also hopes that the Constitution will continue to work for America and the liberties will still be guaranteed. Washington offers some advice to the future Americans,  they are warnings. One was that liberty must be held in the highest standard, political safety will result in prosperity for the US. Next, he said Americans must join together and use their patriotism for their advantage. Everyone in the nation must learn to preserve the union. Also, he says all parts of the United States must work together and use each other when help is needed. If all parts of our nation work together, they cannot fail or be beaten and there is much hope this idea of patriotism will work for the country.  To go along with this, Americans cannot focus on the differences between people in their area, they need to work together instead. This working together goes along with the fact that everyone must follow the rules written in the Constitution. All political groups will counter act the interests of Americans, therefore we should not have political parties but rather leaders with whom we share mutual interests. These people who hold the power may, at the beginning seem helpful, but they are really going to hinder American progress. Also the Constitution should have alterations put into it if the need arises, the need being for the people to maintain their rights. The biggest enemy of Americans is political parties, they, over a long period of time, lead to one person gaining to much power and miseries in the general population. These political groups can cause corruption, thus causing Americans to be subjected to the will of other places. Another important part of the government is the system of checks and balances. Due to people always wanting power, each group must share power, none surpassing the others. Checks and balances will only work if the people in the government are educated and virtuous. To help this nation survive, stay at peace with others and also stay away from evils like corruption. Another thing that must be done is staying out of the problems of foreign nations, stay neutral and trade with both sides. To go along with this, stay clear of permanent alliances and stay honest, by doing so do not grant favors. Overall, Americans must stay neutral, should not have political parties, and should not seek indulgences. In doing so they will be rewarded with their own happiness.

Above: American Flag