From Washington’s Farewell Address: 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 terminated its formal relationships with European nations. The United States should have terminated its formal relationships with European nations. The United States should have announced that it was cutting off relations with other nations. The United States should have announced that it was cutting off relations with other nations. The president should privately reassure foreign leaders that America stands with them but publicly maintain a separation from other nations' policies. The president should privately reassure foreign leaders that America stands with them but publicly maintain a separation from other nations' policies. There was no need to try to hide U.S. intentions to avoid permanent alliances in the future.

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When Washington stated that the maxim "honesty is the best policy" should be applied to foreign relations, he emphasized the importance of being truthful and straightforward about the United States' intentions regarding alliances. He believed that the U.S. should maintain its commitments and engagements honestly while making it clear that forming permanent alliances was unwise. Therefore, the most accurate response would be:

There was no need to try to hide U.S. intentions to avoid permanent alliances in the future.