LAD #5 The Proclamation of Neutrality 1793

A state of war between Austria, Prussia, Sardinia, Great Britain and the United Netherlands against France has forced the United States to take a neutral position toward the Powers. U.S. citizens are warned that they should not act in any way which may alter the position of neutrality. This includes aiding, committing or abetting hostilities to any of the Powers. Citizens who do act in such manner shall be liable to punishment or forfeiture as well as not receive the protection of the United States as a result. This Proclamation of Neutrality of 1793 was issued by George Washington in Philadelphia on April 22, 1793.

LAD #6 Washington's Farewell Address 1796

At the end of Washington's second term of serving as President and expresses concern about the upcoming election. Washington feels that the public should elect someone who is trustworthy because he feels that it is time for him to retire from his presidential duty and retire. Washington states that he would have retired earlier before serving his second term but due to complex foreign affairs he decided to postpone his retirement until after another term. Due to the fact that the circumstances of the country do not render him to run for president again, the public should have no problem with his determination to retire. Although George Washington looks forward to the termination of his career, he does acknowledge gratitute toward his beloved c ountry for its many honors that its given him.

Washington then goes on in his address to confront three main themes. One theme is the rise of sectionalism within the country as well as the increase in political factionalism. He then urges the country to unite as a whole for the good of the country. Washington recognizes the two main parties during the 1790's who were the Federalists and Jeffersonian Republicans. The Federalists, including Washington had pushed for a central bank and other strong central economic plans as well while Jeffersonian Republicans disapproved of a strong central government and favored the thoughts of the farmers instead of city-people.

The second theme of Washington's address is a warning to the U.S. to avoid entanglements of foreign nations especially Europe. Both parties wanted to stay out of wars between France and Britain however the Federalists favored ties with the British while the Republicans wanted to remain loyal to the treaty with France signed in 1788.

The third theme consists of perserving morality. Washington states thats morality is a "necessary spring of popular government."

Washington's Farewell Address was very valuable in that the United States did not get involved in foreign affairs until 1949.