“In my opinion it would be both just and proper to declare the treaty with France to be void--but I think it would be more advisable to direct reprisals than to declare war at present, for the public mind does not appear to me to be quite prepared for it. . . . Whenever the mass of our people are convinced that the war would be just, necessary, and unavoidable, they will be content that it should be declared, and will support it vigorously, but I doubt whether that conviction however well founded, is as yet so prevailing and general as it ought to be. . . .” -Source: John Jay, letter to William North, 1798 14.The ideas expressed by Jay in the excerpt were most similar to those of which of the Founders?

Answer 1

The ideas expressed by John Jay in the excerpt are most similar to those of George Washington. Both leaders emphasized the importance of public opinion and the need for a just and well-supported cause before engaging in war. They believed in considering the broader implications of military action and ensuring that the American populace was united and convinced of the necessity of war before proceeding. Washington's Farewell Address also cautioned against the dangers of political factions and the need for national unity, reflecting a similar prudence and strategic foresight regarding foreign relations and military action.