. Describe the three key concerns that Washington had for the future of the U.S. Explain how the country has progresses in each area and give one specific example.

Here's an answer I posted for this question a few days ago.

http://www.jiskha.com/display.cgi?id=1187480916

George Washington had three key concerns for the future of the United States: national unity, the dangers of foreign alliances, and the preservation of the Republic.

1. National Unity: Washington was concerned about the potential fragmentation of the country along regional lines. He believed that a strong central government and a sense of national identity were essential for maintaining unity.

Progress: The country has made significant progress in national unity since Washington's time. The federal government has played a crucial role in maintaining the union and resolving conflicts between states. For example, during the Civil Rights Movement in the 1960s, the federal government intervened to enforce desegregation laws and protect the rights of African Americans. This helped to promote national unity by ensuring equal treatment for all citizens regardless of their race.

2. Dangers of Foreign Alliances: Washington warned against forming permanent alliances with other countries, believing that they could compromise the nation's independence and drag the country into unnecessary conflicts.

Progress: Over the years, the United States has been cautious in forming alliances and has generally adopted a policy of selective engagement. The country has sought to maintain its independence and sovereignty while cooperating with other nations when it serves its interests. For example, the United States has maintained strong alliances, such as NATO, to promote collective defense and stability in Europe without sacrificing its independence.

3. Preservation of the Republic: Washington feared that the republic could be threatened by factionalism, political division, and the erosion of democratic principles. He believed that a well-informed and active citizenry was crucial for the preservation of the republic.

Progress: The country has made progress in preserving the republic through the expansion of civil rights and democratic participation. Women's suffrage, for example, was achieved in 1920 with the passage of the 19th Amendment, granting women the right to vote. This expanded democratic participation and helped to ensure that a wider range of voices were heard in the political process, strengthening the republic. Additionally, advancements in technology, such as the internet, have facilitated access to information and the ability for citizens to participate in political discourse, further promoting democratic principles.

To describe the three key concerns that Washington had for the future of the U.S., we can refer to his Farewell Address in 1796. The three main concerns he expressed were national unity, avoiding political factions, and maintaining a neutral stance in foreign affairs.

1. National Unity: Washington emphasized the importance of unity among the states and the preservation of the Union. He believed that the strength and success of the country relied on a united front.

Progress in this area: Over the years, the U.S. has made significant progress in maintaining national unity. One specific example is the Civil War (1861-1865), wherein the Union fought against the Confederate States. The outcome of the war resulted in the preservation of the Union and the abolition of slavery, reinforcing the importance of national unity. Since then, the U.S. has continued to work towards a more unified nation through various means such as promoting equality, civil rights, and engaging in policies that benefit all citizens.

2. Avoiding political factions: Washington warned against the formation of political factions or parties, as he believed they would lead to divisions and hinder the functioning of the government.

Progress in this area: Despite Washington's concerns, political parties did emerge in the U.S. However, the country has made progress in effectively managing the influence of political factions. One specific example demonstrating this progress is the peaceful transition of power during presidential elections. While there may be differences in ideologies and policies between the parties, the overall democratic process remains intact, providing citizens the opportunity to express their preferences without resorting to violence or upheaval.

3. Maintaining a neutral stance in foreign affairs: Washington advised the U.S. to avoid entangling alliances and maintain neutrality in global conflicts, as he believed this would protect American interests and promote peace.

Progress in this area: Throughout its history, the U.S. has fluctuated in its approach to foreign affairs but has largely maintained a policy of neutrality when feasible. One specific example is the United States' decision to remain neutral during World War I (1914-1918) for the initial years. The nation prioritized its own interests and avoided direct involvement in the global conflict. Although the U.S. eventually entered the war, initially adhering to a policy of neutrality demonstrated its commitment to Washington's concerns and the principle of staying out of foreign entanglements.

It is important to note that progress in these areas is complex and ongoing, and there have been instances where the U.S. has fallen short of Washington's ideals. Nevertheless, these examples illustrate how the country has made efforts to address the concerns he expressed in his Farewell Address.