Openstex.org/US history
After reading Washington's Farewell Address, consider the following questions. What advice did President Washington have for the country? Why would he offer this advice at that time? Have we followed his advice?
Full Answer Section
Washington offered this advice at a time when the country was still young and fragile. He had seen firsthand the dangers of foreign entanglements and sectionalism, and he wanted to warn the country against repeating the mistakes that had been made by other countries.
It is difficult to say whether or not we have followed Washington's advice. On the one hand, the country has avoided getting involved in foreign wars for most of its history. On the other hand, the country has also been involved in a number of wars, including the War of 1812, the Mexican-American War, and the Spanish-American War.
The country has also had a difficult time avoiding sectionalism. The Civil War was fought over the issue of slavery, and the country has continued to struggle with racial division ever since.
However, it is important to remember that Washington was not a prophet. He could not predict the future, and he could not know what challenges the country would face. His advice is still worth considering, and it is up to each generation to decide how to apply it.