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.

Question

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
The president should privately reassure foreign leaders that America stands with them but publicly maintain a separation from other nations' policies

GPT-4o mini · Answer

Washington’s statement that the maxim “honesty is the best policy” should be applied to foreign relations suggests that the United States should be straightforward and clear about its intentions regarding alliances and relationships with other nations. Therefore, the best response is:

There was no need to be coy about U.S. intentions to avoid permanent alliances in the future.