George Washington's Farewell Address Analysis

In 1796, one of the founding fathers and the first president George Washington was bringing to a close, his 2nd term in the presidency. The letter he composed, which we now refer to as “Washington’s Farewell Address” would be not only widely circulated, but cherished for years to come. His address would not only cover his resignation, but because of its content seemed almost prophetic, as it went on to describe some of the shortcomings we see today as the advice offered was unheeded. In this paper my intent is to not only provide a personal analysis, but to highlight the subject areas which are relevant even today and therefore prove significant.
In the opening of George Washington’s Farewell Address he reminds the people that the time for
His endearment of our country, America, is apparent and his letter exudes the passion he has for her. Moreover, it is obvious the decision to relinquish his position came after careful consideration. This is evident in the way he not only elaborates on his gratitude and sheer admiration of our country, but in the way he carefully and explicitly provides in detail, advise for a prosperous future as well as the potential repercussions should his advice be disregarded. When reading George Washington’s Farewell Address it is hard to ignore the impact of the many decisions made since this letter was written that ultimately were against his direction. Therefore, it seems that it may be in our best interest to reflect and reconsider some of the advice given. Ultimately, his nobility, humility, and zest for a unified nation, are just some of the reasons why so many considered him to be the candidate of choice and ultimately the most renown and virtuous president in the history of our country. George Washington believed in our country, he believed in its virtues and values and most importantly, he believed in the liberty and independence that our nation fought so valiantly to achieve. Ultimately, his letter was not just a “Farewell”, but more importantly a plea to uphold the Constitution and stay true to our fellow Americans