Volume CLXXVI • No. 1

The Federal Ledger

Est. 1776 • Digital Archive of the Republic

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Address • 1796

Washington's Farewell Address

George Washington
Washington's Farewell Address
Facsimile — via Wikimedia Commons

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Washington's 1796 letter to the American people, published rather than spoken, warned against the dangers of permanent foreign alliances, sectional jealousy, and political parties. It established the two-term presidential tradition and is still read aloud annually in the U.S. Senate.

The unity of Government which constitutes you one people is also now dear to you. It is justly so; for it is a main pillar in the edifice of your real independence, the support of your tranquillity at home, your peace abroad, of your safety, of your prosperity. Observe good faith and justice towards all Nations; cultivate peace and harmony with all.
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