US History
Chapter 6
Washington’s Farewell Address Assignment
Name __________________
Introduction
Before analyzing George Washington's farewell address, you might want to review his
presidency in your textbook. Washington established the two-term tradition in the
presidency; it was not made a constitutional limitation until the Twenty-Second
Amendment was passed after Franklin D. Roosevelt had been elected to two terms in the
White House. Washington believed that his political and military background gave him
unique insight into the nation's future. Think about how Washington's message might
apply today as you read his farewell address.
Vocabulary Terms
Write the appropriate definition of each of the following terms. Watch that the definition
matches the context as used by Washington.
1. conferred
2. inviolable
3. solicitude
4. felicity
5. edifice
6. artifice
7. designing
8. expedients
9. acquiescence
10. maxim
11. baneful
12. salutary
13. disposition
14. religion
15. morality
16. inveterate
17. antipathy
18. amicable
19. animosity
20. intercourse
21. benign
Questions to Consider
1. Briefly summarize George Washington's beliefs about political parties. Cite several
reasons for his beliefs.
2. What warning about foreign nations does Washington give in his farewell address?
3. Why do you think Washington was so concerned about these two issues?
4. According to Washington, why are religion and morality “indispensable supports?”
5. Evaluate the role of political parties in today's national scene. Were Washington's
concerns valid for the future of the nation?
6. How does Washington suggest that the US use public credit? Explain his reasons.
7. Are the concerns that Washington had about the nation's foreign affairs still
applicable today? Why or why not?