George Washington's Farewell Address

Reading Check and Short Answer questions on key points are designed for guided reading assignments, in-class review, formative assessment, quizzes, and more.

Reading Check

1. At the beginning of his speech, what does Washington state he’s declining?

2. How does Washington describe the attitude or tone of his warnings?

3. What does Washington believe is the best way to preserve the liberty of American citizens?

4. What geographic divides does Washington see in the young country?

5. What divisions does Washington fear could become the basis of competing political parties?

6. How does Washington view the role of religion and morality for politicians?

7. How does Washington view national debt?

8. What kind of relationships does Washington believe the United States should have with other nations?

Short Answer

Answer each question in at least 1 complete sentence. Incorporate details from the text to support your response.

1. How might the US avoid accumulating debt, according to Washington?

2. What does Washington look forward to after leaving office?

3. What dangers could arise from the “attachment” of other nations?

4. What dangers of political parties does Washington describe in the middle of his address?

Recommended Next Reads

“Farewell Radio and Television Address to the American People” by Dwight D. Eisenhower

• President Eisenhower states his farewell to the American people as their president and bestows some of his thoughts on the running of the country. Famously, he warns about the danger of the “military-industrial complex.”
• Shared themes include The Preservation of Liberty and The Importance of National Unity.

Common Sense by Thomas Paine

• Eighteenth-century political activist Thomas Paine explains the importance of the colonies’ separation from the tyranny of the British government.
• Shared themes include Virtue as a Safeguard Against Social Decay and The Preservation of Liberty.
• Common Sense on SuperSummary