Why did President Washington give this advice about the future of U.S. foreign policy?

Question

Why did President Washington give this advice about the future of U.S. foreign policy?

-President George Washington, Farewell Address,
1796
• To end European colonization in the Western Hemisphere
• To avoid being drawn into European Wars
• To use trade embargos to remain neutral
• To encourage economic growth through the transatlantic slave trade

Answer 1

President Washington gave this advice about the future of U.S. foreign policy to avoid being drawn into European Wars. He was advocating for a policy of neutrality and non-intervention in the conflicts of Europe, in order to protect the fledgling United States from being embroiled in the power struggles and conflicts of European nations. By staying out of foreign wars, Washington believed the U.S. could focus on its own domestic development and avoid the potential consequences of getting involved in the tumultuous affairs of Europe.