stitutions of education and of civic education. The “great Pillars of human happiness” and the “firmest props of the duties of Men and citizens,” he emphasized, were religion and morality. “Of all the dispositions and habits which lead to political prosperity, Religion and morality are indispensable supports.”
America’s Role in the World
The foreign policy of the new nation requires both principles and prudence, given its circumstances. The United States should “observe good faith and justice towards all Nations.” In the future, he asks Americans to keep in mind that “it will be worthy of a free, enlightened, and at no distant period, a great Nation, to give to mankind the magnanimous and too novel example of a People always guided by an exalted justice and benevolence.” America’s place in the world will elevate and distinguish its national character. Washington recommended as the great rule of conduct that the United States primarily pursue commercial relations with other nations and have with them “as little political connection as possible,” consistent with its treaty obligations. Washington did not call for America to withdraw from the world: he warned of political connections and permanent alliances. In a world convulsed by the French Revolution, he advised that the young republic “steer clear of permanent Alliances with any portion of the foreign world.” America should be clear-headed about
its own capacities under changing circumstances while keeping itself in mind as an example to the world. Washington recommended that the nation pursue a long-term course of placing itself in a position to defy external threats, defend its own neutrality, and, eventually, choose peace or war as its own “interest, guided by justice, shall Counsel.”
The Eradication of Freedom
Washington argued that political parties needed to be restrained in a free country with a government empowered by the consent of the governed and established through popular elections. He warned of the possibility fearing they could distract the government from its required duty to the people and even lead to the eradication of the freedoms established by the founding. Unfortunately, it is way too late to restrain the hunger for power in today’s political parties; it has been enculturated. America is at the mercy of two powerful political parties. If a strong candidate wants to get elected to office in this country, one usually needs some affiliation to the major parties. We see from history that third party forays are limited in strength and often serve only to undermine one or another of the major parties in the capacity of a “spoiler.” If Washington could see America now, probably the only thing that he could say after getting over the shock, would be: “I told you so!”
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What’s next “Obama Tooths?”
surance do they have? I doubt they’re By Richard Matz Why should Pres. Obama worry on Obamacare and even if they are, about healthcare? He just signed up I’m sure they have enough money to for the healthcare system that he im- provide better health care, better posed upon all Americans, legal or doctors and hospitals for themselves. illegal! Oh yeah... I forgot… Pres. Obamacare was, is and will be a misObama’s signing up was just symboli- take that all Americans will have to cal as he has a much better health plan bear the brunt of when Pres. Obama provided for by the VA. But what about orders a bail-out for any of the bankhis wife and children? What type of in- rupted parties.. For advertising information, call (858) 537-2280 • advertising@militarypress.com
January 1, 2014 THE MILITARY PRESS 5