Use the excerpt to answer the question. It is our true policy to steer clear of permanent alliances with any What did Washington mean when he wrote that the maxim portion of the foreign world; so far, I mean, as we are now at liberty “honesty is the best policy” should be applied to foreign to do it; for let me not be understood as capable of patronizing [supporting] infidelity [disloyalty; unfaithfulness] to existing relations? engagements. I hold the maxim [wise saying] no less applicable to public than to private affairs, that honesty is always the best policy. I (1 point) repeat, therefore, let those engagements be observed in their genuine sense. But, in my opinion, it is unnecessary and would be The United States should have announced that it was unwise to extend them. cutting off relations with other nations. - Washington's Farewell Address 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.

Question

Use the excerpt to answer the question. It is our true policy to steer clear of permanent alliances with any What did Washington mean when he wrote that the maxim portion of the foreign world; so far, I mean, as we are now at liberty “honesty is the best policy” should be applied to foreign to do it; for let me not be understood as capable of patronizing [supporting] infidelity [disloyalty; unfaithfulness] to existing relations? engagements. I hold the maxim [wise saying] no less applicable to public than to private affairs, that honesty is always the best policy. I (1 point) repeat, therefore, let those engagements be observed in their genuine sense. But, in my opinion, it is unnecessary and would be The United States should have announced that it was unwise to extend them. cutting off relations with other nations. - Washington's Farewell Address 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.

Answer 1

In the excerpt from Washington's Farewell Address, he emphasizes the importance of maintaining honesty and integrity in international relations while advising against forming permanent alliances with foreign nations. Washington believed that the United States should honor its existing agreements but avoid entangling itself in long-term commitments that could compromise its independence and policy choices. Therefore, the option that best aligns with Washington's sentiment is:

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

This reflects his belief in transparency regarding U.S. foreign policy while adhering to current engagements without extending or deepening alliances that could lead to conflicts or obligations detrimental to the country's sovereignty.