It is our true policy to steer clear of permanent alliances with any portion of the foreign world; so far, I mean, as we are now at liberty to do it; for let me not be understood as capable of patronizing [supporting] infidelity [disloyalty; unfaithfulness] to existing engagements. I hold the maxim [wise saying] no less applicable to public than to private affairs, that honesty is always the best policy. I repeat, therefore, let those engagements be observed in their genuine sense. But, in my opinion, it is unnecessary and would be unwise to extend them. - Washington’s Farewell Address Question Use the excerpt to answer the question. What did Washington mean when he wrote that the maxim “honesty is the best policy” should be applied to foreign relations? (1 point) Responses
The United States should have announced that it was cutting off relations with other nations.
The United States should have terminated its formal relationships with European nations.
There was no need to be coy about U.S. intentions to avoid permanent alliances in the future.
There was no need to be coy about U.S. intentions to avoid permanent alliances in the future.
The president should privately reassure foreign leaders that America stands with them but publicly maintain a separation from other nations’ policies.
The correct answer is: There was no need to be coy about U.S. intentions to avoid permanent alliances in the future.
The correct answer is: The president should privately reassure foreign leaders that America stands with them but publicly maintain a separation from other nations’ policies.
To understand what Washington meant when he wrote that the maxim "honesty is the best policy" should be applied to foreign relations, let's analyze the excerpt.
Washington stated that it was their policy to avoid permanent alliances with any portion of the foreign world. However, he also emphasized that this did not mean supporting disloyalty to existing engagements. In other words, he advocated for being honest and faithful in honoring existing commitments.
By stating that "honesty is always the best policy," Washington suggested that the United States should maintain honesty and integrity in its dealings with other nations. This means that they should observe their engagements in their genuine sense and not deviate from the agreements they had made.
Therefore, the correct answer is: "There was no need to be coy about U.S. intentions to avoid permanent alliances in the future." Washington argued that the United States did not need to be secretive or ambiguous about its desire to avoid permanent alliances. They should instead be straightforward and honest about their intentions while also honoring their current commitments.