Let me now take a more comprehensive view, and warn you in the most solemn manner against the

Question

baneful [harmful, destructive] effects of the spirit of party generally.

This spirit, unfortunately, is inseparable from our nature, having its root in the strongest passions of the
human mind. It exists under different shapes in all governments, more or less stifled, controlled, or
repressed; but, in those of the popular form, it is seen in its greatest rankness [state of being excessive
and unpleasant], and is truly their worst enemy....

It agitates the community with ill-founded jealousies and false alarms, kindles the animosity of one
part against another, foments [stirs up] occasionally riot and insurrection. It opens the door to foreign
influence and corruption, which finds a facilitated [made easier] access to the government itself
through the channels of party passions. Thus the policy and the will of one country are subjected to the
policy and will of another....

George Washington, Farewell Address

Essay Question (Don't forget to use RAD Restate the questions, Answer the question, and provide Details....Good essay questions should be at least 3-5 sentences. This is a deep question and requires at least three-five sentences to fully address the topic.)

Based on the excerpt and your knowledge from the unit, explain Washington's views on Political Parties. 

Answer 1

Based on the excerpt, Washington holds a negative view of political parties. He warns against the harmful effects of the spirit of party, which he believes is inherent in human nature and particularly destructive in popular forms of government. Washington argues that political parties agitate the community, foster division and animosity among its members, and can even lead to riot and insurrection. He further asserts that foreign influence and corruption can infiltrate the government through the channels of party passions, compromising the sovereignty and autonomy of the country. Thus, Washington's views suggest a strong aversion to the divisive and potentially destructive nature of political parties.