Wednesday, November 14, 2007

Washington's Farewell Address


Identify the main ideas of Washington's farewell address, pick one of the issues he discusses and argue whether or not you think he was correct.

Washington's farewell address.

51 comments:

Anonymous said...

George Washington's farewell address is full of encouragement and, most importantly, patriotism. He speaks of the Constitution and what this country was built on- liberty, happiness, togetherness, and so on. Washington's main ideas included the new, upcoming election, the weight of being president, how grateful Americans should be to this country, the "love of liberty", the glory of government, sticking together as one strong nation, preserving the political system, and the importance of every state. Of these several topics, he connects himself to the audience by mentioning the issues which have concerned the citizens of America. One issue in his sppech, which was interesting to me, was that of "the basis of our political systems". He states that the enrulement of one political group over another, or even a group of people, is dangerous to all. A result of this is a direct route to tyranny, thus demolishing all that the country stands for. Prevailing over competetion will gain success in the tyrant and, in this sense, terminate the liberty of others. It is worthy of recognition that Washington takes the time to give a word of advise for his future followers in order to keep his hard work from going to waste and to protect the people of,in his eyes, this commendable country.

Tianna Sykes
Hour 9

Anonymous said...

George Washington's farewell is full of encouragment to the people of the united states. Washington speaks about the constitution. He also talks about what the U.S. was built on, which is liberty and happiness. The main ideas of George Washington farewell are the upcoming election of the new president, the "love of liberty", sticking together as one strong nation, and the unity of the government. The one issue in Washington's speech that is interesting to me is The Basis of Our Political System. he says the enrulement of one group over another is dangerous to everyone. In which it will lead to tyranny. And tyranny will take away the liberty of other people.

Raghda Ahmad
Hour 6

Anonymous said...

George Washington discusses what is important in a country. He talks alot about patriotism and being grateful to their country. It's full of encouragement for the peole.

Avery Johnson
Hour 6/7

Anonymous said...

One issue that Washington discusses is that the peoples' liberty and will lye in the government and that the government protects them from enemies and guides them. I agree and disagree because although there are political figures who wish to conduct acts that better the country, for the good of the people, there are others who are corrupted with greed and power that wish to help rule with a blind eye and conduct acts that satisfy the ones who think alike and can identify with them. Its all up to perspective.

Joseph Anderson, Hour 6-7

Anonymous said...

His address shows the importance of trust in ones government. As mentioned for quite some time, this country's constitution has both political and personal beliefs, that wether we like it or not have very much impacted this country and the way its run. One of the main points of this article is the significance of being president. The president is supposed to represent the people, and their opinions, which in my opinion rarely happens. In the words of George Washington,"We need to stick together", (not an actual quote), this goes to show that the motto of unity was deeply considered when founding this country......Democracy seems to be the way that the country was run, back then tyranny as well as aristocracy were "abolished". Washington is deeply concerned with the future of this country and gives advice from his point of view and past experiences. In my opinion, this article shows the points of view back then with todays modern twists.

Jessica Jimenez
Hour 9

Anonymous said...

Main ideas in Washington's farewell address include a strong faith in the trust give to the leader of America, a sensation of patriotism that should be put above all other issues regardless of the situation. This patriotism contributes the unity that would be established by a president as he respects the civilians equality in minor matters and knows how to preserve the magnificient liberty America has long fought for. Which stresses one of the ideas of the "burden" placed on a president shoulders to keep the safety and well-being of the country during his term. Usually burden is depicted as a bad thing, but in this case I consider preseidency a burden because it seems nearly impossible to please so many people at once. Additionally,he includes an idea of the significance that each state has in the government system. An idea i disagree with is choosing a leader who we trust. Yes, trust is a key characteristic that us as humans rely upon to follow a leader. But, it is also one of the easies things to destroy. Therefore, for me a president shouldnt be based upon primarily trust but the message his actions give to citizens.

Elizabeth Montes
hour 6-7

Anonymous said...

The main ideas presented in Washington's farewell include, first of all; an explanation for his decision of leaving, and the trust that the people will choose the correct leader that is to follow him. After speaking much of the duty to Government and Country-the duties and responsibilities of every citizen (taxes, etc.)- he goes on to foreign policy and to the reactions of the American people to foreign affairs- he says that there should be no preference towards one country, for it clouds judgement, and thus; justice- (such as in the French Revolution) (anti-federalists supported the French Revolution for they compared it to their own, while largely ignoring the unjust slaughter of innocent people) and that treaties made with other countries should be temporary, in order to prevent one country being entangled with another, also to discourage enemies of that country to make you an enemy as well. Also to maintain a balance of political parties, to prevent despotism.
I agree with the idea of impartiality that Washington advocated, because it gives a country much more independence, by staying out of foreign affairs, a country may develop efficiently, without treaties, wars, or other events (taking place in a foreign country) thwarting progress. Though, nowadays, the consequences of the U.S "war on terrorism" is evidence to support this view.

Giselle Remolina
Hour 6-7

Anonymous said...

George Washingtons farewell address discusses the trust and liberty in ones government. Not only was this encouraging but true. He spoke of the burdens of being president and how important it is to be in this country. He explains that a president has to represent the people and be a true leader to the entire nation which really doesnt happen at all. I believe that it is very difficult to please everyone and their opinions. He also explains how we should stick together and build ourselves into a strong nation. This all depends on wat u believe and your own opinion.

Adalis Rivers hr 9

Anonymous said...

Washington's Farewell Adress is very patriotic (and long). He starts off explaining that he is not running for a third term-- this two term limit was added as the twenty-second amendment to the Constitution. He stressed unity among the nation and between political parties... Anti-Federalist vs. Federalist during that time. He states that the North, South, East, and West all need each other and have to work together. He goes on to explain that the country needs to take no sides with other countries or to pick any favorites because it will cause problems. He does have a point about the "neutrality is good" bit. Lately our government has not been following his advice: The Cold War (not exactly recent but it really was not that long ago) and The War on Terror are two good examples. We are a world power now, so being neutral doesn't seem like an option. The whole war against Communism and Cold War is the perfect example. We didn't want to lose face, Communism was waay over there (points in general direction of Russia), we just didn't want them to have freedom, we wanted Capitalism, we were big meanys and said, "Hey, let's ignore Washington's idea of neutrality" I'm pretty sure that's an exact quote from someone. The Vietnam War is kinda the same thing (in my opinion). Silly United States Imperialism... no longer neutral, we have a relatively good tie with Britain (at least with Tony Blair we did, now Gordon Brown could be different... he's not going to follow us to Iran although hopefully we won't go to Iran.. off topic) anywho, we are no longer neutral which we should be.... other countries have their business and we have ours... There is a limit of course... if Hitler Jr. is born to Germany now we can't just leave the Jews in neighboring countries to be killed but political policies are up to each individual country.

Jennifer Donahoe
Hour: 9

Anonymous said...

Washington's Farewell Address in my opinion reflects the relationship and duities of American citizens as well as the government. In his address, he explains that as citizens holding titles of americans should resemble the meaning of patriotism. Also, he explains that we as citizens should stay together in uunity the same way we fought for independence and liberty. Washington kind of explians the basis of a political systems, which is the people and their willingness to alter the constitutions of the government.

Erikka Strong
hr. 9-9

Anonymous said...

George Washington discusses the importance of being loyal to your country, as well as grateful because of how much is provided for you. It's full of encouragement as well, towards the people. He explains the "love of liberty" and what it means to him. He doesn't want his efforts going to waste. He wants to make sure that this country is good, n stays good even after he is out of office as president, and leader of the army. He belives this is a great country, and he encourages everyone includng himself, to keep it that way.

juliana nailen
hr. 2

Anonymous said...

He explains the importance of supportng your country, and encouragement towards the upcoming election. He believes that we're a great country, and do great things. Washington exploits staying together, and working as a team, and keeping the political system together to keep a strong nation.

jenira torres
hr. 9

Anonymous said...

Georgie Washington stressed the things he would carry out if he continued to be the POTUS. He obviously is a fan of love of one's country and self-sufficientcy. *sp* He also sets the trend of neutrality that many presidents including Martin "The Little Magician" Van Buren continued to uphold. Undeniable is Washington's gratitude for the ability to serve his beloved country.

Alex "Hostile" Kostal
Hour 9-9

Anonymous said...

George Washington's farewell address is composed of an overload of encouragement to the people amd patriotism.Washington is leaving but he does trust the people to choose a rightous leader, he does not view the people as being sophmoric, but rahter wise in decision making.Out of all the advise he gives out in this letter the one that stands out to me the most is the one of unity of government. Washington says that unity is "the support of tranquility at home, peace and safety".It is also "the main pillar in the edifice of real independence". I agree completely with him, when their is unity their is power.He also mentions that eventiolly their will be problems, but if their is the problems will not be as many.

Consuelo Moreno H:6-7

Anonymous said...

George Washington talked about what was important within a country like his own. He discusses patriotism and how ir is encouragement to the people.

Lindsay Krueger
hr. 6-7

Anonymous said...

President Washington's Farewell Address was an encouragement to the new nation--laced with patriotism. He talks of the upcoming election and how the people should vote carefully, as the executive is very important. Thje citizens "thoughts must be employed in designating the person who is to be clothed with that important trust." Washington expresses the power and glory of government; Americans should be grateful to the nation and love their liberty. Washgton warns against disunity and foriegn entanglements. One of his main ideas was "the basis of our political systems". He says that the ruling of one group over another is a bane, a sword strike at the heart of liberty. Tyrannay must be avoided at all costs, or the USA is a hypocritical upstart that will not outlast its own infighting. In this, I agree with Washington. Tyranny over all by one group is in no way equitable or just, but an outright defilemet of liberty.


BRAD MIER
HOUR 6/7

Morgan said...

The main ideas of Washington's farewell address were that he was not going to run for a 3rd term, unity was important and the nation was the sum of all its parts, in foreign policy the U.S. should not play favorites with other nations, and the U.S. should not ally with any other nations. As for unity, Washington was correct in stressing its importance. The nation was strongest if all of its people were unity, not just if the people within stated were united though. The states had to unite as well or the strength of the small and new country would quickly diminish. This unity also would include political unity. The states all benefited in relations with one another, as well there was strength against "external danger" in unity.

Morgan Nager
Hour 9

Anonymous said...

Washington's farewell address talks about the trust and liberty in ones government. He says that we americans should be happy and loyal to this country. He also talks about there needing to be a unity in goverment, he said enrulement of one group over another is dangerous to everyone. i agree with that, its just the reason we broke away from being a monarchy(sp).

Nichole Dorsey
H 6-7

Anonymous said...

George Washington discusses how important our country is and how grateful we should be. He also discusses patriotism and how this country was built on liberty and working together.

Bridgette Spiegel
Hour 9

Anonymous said...

In his farewell address, Washington talks about how the government's unity, or disunity, affect people in their private lives. It affects peoples' individual indipendance. If the government is not unified it does affect everyone individually. With the present war in Iraq people look to the president and the government to make sure that they are safe in their homes. If the government is divided on a major issue like the war, then they will appear to be not unified therefore affecting how the people see them and make people uncomfortable. He also talks about people being loyal to their country. these things come hand in hand. If people are looking to the government to be unified and strong, and they see this, they are more likely to be loyal and patriotic towards their country than when they see the government divided and weak.

Jordan Chevako
Hour 9

Anonymous said...

George Washingtons farewell is an enlightning speach to the people. He talks about what the country is built on and what it should grow from. one main topic he dicusses is that the peoples liberty lies in the government.That beliving in their government will protect. somehow i agree and disagree with this only because the day and age we live in leaves the people without hope and sometimes a way out. So I dont think the government at times protects the people, in fact it leaves some people stranded an without a life line. So what Washington stood for and encouraged is no longer put into practice. George Washington strongly believed in life liberty, and the pursuit of happiness, mething that I think today's government and way of life is missing.

Natasha Velazquez
Hr9

Anonymous said...

President Washington had decided that it was time to pass the torch of American leadership and gave his farewell. In his address, he rendered important advice that would help the states perserve thier liberty. He highlights the Constitution as the basis of the political system and the ability to amend the constitution is the basis of democracy. He stood strongly against political parties because they created division within the nation which inevitably creates weakness. This weakness of a young nation was one of the main reasons why Washington exclaimed neutrality as oppose to alliance with the French during the French Revolution. He also warned against permanant agreements and treaties. Temporality would be the best option.

Tiara Anderson
Hour 9

Anonymous said...

President Washington had decided that it was time to pass the torch of American leadership and gave his farewell. In his address, he rendered important advice that would help the states perserve thier liberty. He highlights the Constitution as the basis of the political system and the ability to amend the constitution is the basis of democracy. He stood strongly against political parties because they created division within the nation which inevitably creates weakness. This weakness of a young nation was one of the main reasons why Washington exclaimed neutrality as oppose to alliance with the French during the French Revolution. He also warned against permanant agreements and treaties. Temporality would be the best option.

Tiara Anderson
Hour 9

Anonymous said...

In George Washington’s farewell address, he points out the stepping stones in organizing the Constitution with peace, honesty, liberty, and loyalty of the people to the nation. he portrays the importance of making the United States a great nation, where peace is kept with all races. In one part of his letter he says, "Observe good faith and justice towards all nations; cultivate peace and harmony with all." I agree with this statement because in order to maintain an organized, working nation, there has to be peace with all nations to protect the land and the people who reside there.

Harpreet Kaur
Hour 6-7

Anonymous said...

George Washington's Farewell Address speaks about how he hopes the Government will remain the same and true. Saying that the people should stay on the path of liberty, unity and love the basic building blocks that has kept the states together. One of the things he mentions is the struggle between the North and South and their battle of equal power and representation in the government. And, tells them the reason they've come this far is because of them staying together in their power and government power.

DeLon Thornton
6-7

Anonymous said...

the country needs a union it does it good. it makes sure that all hard working people are treated humanely hour 2 Dominic

Anonymous said...

George Washington's farewell address liberty in one's government. The main ideas of George Washington farewell are the upcoming election of the new president, the "love of liberty", sticking together as one strong nation, and the unity of the government. He explains that a president has to represent the people and be a true leader to the entire nation. He also explains how people should unite as a strong nation. The ruling of one group over another will lead to tyranny which takes away the liberty of other people.

Victor Rose
hr 6-7

Anonymous said...

The address starts off with washing ton explaining why he has chosen to retire, and him explaining that he hope the people will understand and will not disapprove his decision to do so. He also mentions that even though his service was only a transient amount of time and is going to quit the political scene, his patriotism is not quitting (or something like that, I think). He goes on about his love for his country and his gratitude. He talks about how we’re a whole and working together is important to preserve and guard the nation. The North and the South benefits from each other and the East and the West do the same thing. Mutual relationships, although different parts of the country do differ in their own ideas, are needed for the unity of the United States, because it ensures, “...greater strength, greater resource, proportionably greater security from external danger….” Washington talks about the laws in the Constitution and the rights of the people and how they can change the laws when it is the, “…act of the whole people….” He thinks the spirit of parties are the worst because, “It exists under different shapes in all governments, more or less stifled, controlled, or repressed; but, in those of the popular form, it is seen in its greatest rankness, and is truly their worst enemy.” A government with great power is prone to abuse it, a government needs to distribute the powers so no part of the government is strong enough to over power the other. Although if the “distribution or modification of the constitutional powers be in any particular wrong, let it be corrected by an amendment in the way which the Constitution designates.” --- I believe this is true, a government should not be too strong; a strong government will only lead to corruption because it is run by power hungry people, if the power is spread, no such part of the government is stronger than the other, although there would still be power hungry people. Washinston goes on and one about patriotism, liberty, harmony, examinations, interests, considerations, and such of the nation’s. (This was too long and sort of confusing to me, i don't think I touched upon the most important parts of the address, or even understood them.)


Ia Moua
Hr. 2

Anonymous said...

AS President George Washington made his farewll address of 1796, he addressed the people of the pure unadulterated, uncorrupted, uncorporated America. He said words of encouragement, expressing his approval of the government and its actions. washington also warns the Americans to keep themselves from insignificance in foreign quarrels, and that America's tyranny must be avoied completely. If its not, America is to hape itself a moral dilamma in its own starting point, andcontinuous run.
personally, Washington had his own ideas along with the right ideas for the country. Along with the idea that with tyranny, no one is safe or just, just that the persons are only helping destroy what they built: their freedom and liberty.

Sincerely,

that one kid you hate...

Paul Donohoe-Klebar
Hour 2
AP-US History

Anonymous said...

George Washingtons farewell address is meant to encourage the americans to vote for theie rights and know their goverment.

Dennis Polzin
HR. 2

Anonymous said...

George Washington's farewell addresses talks about the basis of the our political system. it also states something about patriotism and the importance of the country.

Dale Curtis
hr.2

Anonymous said...

George Washington's farewell address encouragement and patriotism. He talks about the constitution and how it is basis of our political system. Washington says the people of our country should unite together to be a strong nation.

Theresa Miranda
Hour: 6-7

Anonymous said...

George Washington "the sword of the revolution" adress shows how much he loves and cares for his country. I notice that he wants to see the country not to plummet, but to sucess. What appeals to me is that he gives addvice on how to keep the country from plummeting. He talks about not have permanent alliances with other countries but keep them temporary. If America relied on other countries then how will Americafind its own way. Its like a an adult living with his parents. If he or she continues to live with them eventually they will never live their own life, but relie on their parents. Washington talks about not going to war with other countries. It's bad enough to relie on a country but to start a war with them. I rather make temporary friends than long time enemies. Like it has been said before Washington's Farewell Address is patriotic but more important beneficail to the America


Mwanje Thompson
Hour 9-9

Anonymous said...

George Washington is encouraging his country and shows how important it is.


Ryan Givens
Hour 2

Anonymous said...

George Washington's farewell address is uplifting and it discusses the liberties of each individual citizen in the country.It also states that the government should provide safety and serve as a guide for the citizens through their lives. In addition, Washington states that too much power in one area of the government is dangerous. This address shows that during this time period a person would have to ensure much trust with their government leaders in order to maintain a stable country.


Darryl Bridgeman Jr.
Hour 2...ya dig!!!
Class of 09

Anonymous said...

George Washington's farewell address is like a step by step process on how the United States should be. In the beginning he talks about how he does not want to be president and that he is not portraying the people it is just he needs to be able to enjoy his life. Washington also discusses how the people in the United States should be one no matter of race, color, where you were born, as long as we are one nation and that we support each other.

Anonymous said...

George Washington set the precedent for the conduct of all future presidents of the nation, which most continued to follow. Even if a few presidents like Andrew "Ol' Hickory" Jackson made a mockery of the national government, most still upheld the genuine leadership originally presented by Washington. His modest nature genuine love for the nation and its population are still represented in the government we know today, and for that, we should all be thankful.

Sincerely,

Conor McMullen
Hour 6-7

Anonymous said...

A major highlighted theme in Washington's farewell address was the development of alliances between America and foreign countries. He wanted America to steer away from devolping such alliances that will later threaten or force America into war. Aliances should only be temporary. Personaly in a way I believe he was right. America could save itself from a lot of devastation by not getting involved with alliances.

Shaunise Pierce
Hr. 2

Anonymous said...

well this was a rather interesting farewell address by mister first president. i could see why he wouldnt want office for the next election due to all the problems society's going to create for him.
the problems are having to keep the nation together. washington doesnt want to be in office again but would like the next person in office to follow in his footsteps to continue on what he worked so hard on to achieve. he saw that unity was key to keep the nation moving forward. he wants to have a nice private life. he tells about how the west needs the east's ideas and technology to benefit the west.
he also wants us to extend commercial relations internationally, but not to create any personal ties, he wants america to be neutral

Athee Xiong
Hour 2

Anonymous said...

In George Washington's farewll address he gives advice and encouragement to the people. He talks about the importance of patriotism and what is important in a country.

Monique Lofton
Hr 2

Anonymous said...

Washington discussed the morals on which the country was built as well as the importance of trust in a persons government.

Anonymous said...

^^^^
Samuel Hutchins
Hr.9

Anonymous said...

Main ideas in Washington's farewell is full of encouragment and includes a strong faith in the trust that is give to a leader. Besides speakin about the constitution he also mentions as to what the U.S was built upon. The main idea in this passage was the upcoming elections of the new president. Patriotism was to be put above all issues, it should contribute to unity and be established with respect and equality. He also said how the enrulement of one group over another was dangerous, which will take away liberty.

Yuliana Garcia
hour 9

Anonymous said...

Washington was trying to stress on his thoughts towards the government and what the country was built on.


Alex Olavarria
hour 2

Anonymous said...

Geogre Washington encouraged the country to succeed.He shows faith in the country and wishes them well. He tells them what he believes they will need in order to be a great nation. He bows out with dignity and his pride.


Cody Martin Hr. 9

Anonymous said...

George Washington's farewell address the importance of the government and it people. It shows the greatness in who he is and what he stands for. He expresses the feelings he has on the Constitution and the the liberty of his citizens. Because of this he shows courage, Strength, and most importantly he shows how much he cares for his country.


Kaeko Barnes
Hour 6-7

Anonymous said...

In Geogre Washington's farewell address, he encouraged the country to succeed. He tells them what he believes they will need in order to be a great nation and comes out with dignity and patriotism. Washington shows a lot of faith in the country and wishes them well.

Isaac Wodajo 2-2

Anonymous said...

George Washington adresses several topics in the Farewell Address.The benefits in the Federal Government,the dangers in the party system, the importance of religion and morality,he gave a warning against permanent foreign alliances, and discussed the disadvantages in an over-powerful military. I agree with his disagreement with permanent foreign alliances. I agree because when you form alliances it benefits both you and the allies but when you are done with your battle that should put it in the past. When you have long time allies, that becomes complicated. Whenever you or your allies have a conflict, war, or battle you have to go fight. It is not fair because your nation may not be fit to fight at that moment or your nation may be too poor. After the wars there are always high debts, then your nation is in trouble. I do not agree with the permanent alliances but I do agree with Washington.
Carissa Peters
Hour 6-7

Anonymous said...

I believe that in George Washington's Farewell Address the main idea was national unity. Washington said that there should not be separate groups of political parties, instead the people of America should be one group unified by one thing-they live in the same country.He said that Americans should be proud to be Americans after anything it took for America to become America. He talks about the Constitution; saying that it is used for people in search of liberty and freedom. I agree when Washington says that if America is unified it will have a lot of power. One state by itself had very little power compared to Great Britain or France but all the states put together connected by a strong government, America would and has overpower Great Britain.

Anonymous said...

Michael Govani Hour 9

Washingtons farewell address was a deliberately inspiring speech. We all know of it as something that set the basis for all future presidents.. However, if you think about it, George Washington really had no choice but to set the basis. He set up a system designed for the country to succeed, but no one really understood it but him. Therefore ifd he hadn't of given the speech the whole country would be based on how the president and only the president had to say. Hence, George Washington took care of his responsibility and nothing else. He was not trying to be a hero oir anything, he was just finishing what he started unlike many of our presidentys.

Mike Uhnt Harry said...

An Italian chef died. He pasta way. We cannoli do so much. His legacy will become a pizza history. Here today, gone tomato. I can only express-so much grief, but I must romaine calm. How sad that he ran out of thyme. Ashes to ashes, crust to crust. There's just not mushroom left for Italian chefs in this world... Sending olive my prayers to his family. His wife is really upset, cheese still not over it... You never sausage a tragic thing. Its such a shame good people die fusilli reasons. It was a farfalle from grace... My condolences for Roberto, who died in the spagheto.