George Washington’s Farewell Address (1796) is one of the most famous parting messages in American history. As he prepared to retire to Mount Vernon, he used the letter not just to say goodbye, but to offer a "warning from a parting friend" to the nation he helped found.
His message was primarily defined by a wish for national unity and a warning against partisanship and foreign entanglement.
What Washington Wished For
Washington’s positive vision for the country was rooted in the idea that being "American" should matter more than being a resident of any specific state or region.
Perpetual Union: His deepest wish was for the Union to remain legally and emotionally binding. He urged Americans to cherish the Union as the "main pillar" of their independence, tranquility, and liberty.
A National Identity: He wanted citizens to value their identity as Americans above all else, famously stating, "The name of American, which belongs to you in your national capacity, must always exalt the just pride of patriotism more than any appellation derived from local discriminations."
Morality and Education: He argued that "religion and morality" were indispensable supports for political prosperity.7 He also wished for the "general diffusion of knowledge," believing that an educated public was essential to keep the government accountable.
Credit and Economy: He wished for the nation to cherish its public credit, urging the government to use debt sparingly and for the people to pay off debts during times of peace so they wouldn't burden future generations.
What Washington Warned Against
Washington saw three specific dangers that could destroy the young republic from the inside out.
1. The "Spirit of Party" (Political Factions)
Washington issued a severe warning against the rise of political parties. He feared they would divide the country and allow "cunning, ambitious, and unprincipled men" to subvert the power of the people.
The Danger: He believed parties would lead to a cycle of revenge where one faction seeks dominance over the other, eventually leading to a permanent despotism where a single individual seizes power for their own security rather than the good of the nation.
Foreign Influence: He also warned that fierce partisanship opens the door to foreign influence and corruption, as foreign powers often try to manipulate domestic parties to serve their own interests.
2. Sectionalism (Regional Divisions)
He warned against "geographical discriminations"—specifically the division between North and South, or East and West. He feared that designing men would try to excite a belief that there was a real difference of local interests and views, pitting one region against another to gain influence.
3. Permanent Foreign Alliances
Washington famously advised the nation to "steer clear of permanent alliances with any portion of the foreign world."
Neutrality: He did not advocate for total isolation (he supported trade), but he warned against getting entangled in European wars and politics.
Favoritism: He warned against having "inveterate antipathies" (permanent hatreds) or "passionate attachments" (permanent friendships) with other nations. He believed that loving another nation too much makes you a slave to their policy and quarrels.