"President Washington's Farewell Address, Sep 19, 1797"

Question

by Miller Center

The period for a new election of a citizen to administer the Executive Government of the United States being not far distant, and the time actually arrived when your thoughts must be employed in designating the person who is to be clothed with that important trust, it appears to me proper, especially as it may conduce to a more distinct expression of the public voice, that I should now apprise you of the resolution I have formed, to decline being considered among the number of those out of whom a choice is to be made.

I beg you, at the same time, to do me the justice to be assured that this resolution has not been taken without a strict regard to all the considerations appertaining to the relation which binds a dutiful citizen to his country; and that in withdrawing the tender of service, which silence in my Situation might imply, I am influenced by no diminution of zeal for your future interest, no deficiency of grateful respect for your past kindness, but am supported by a full conviction that the step is compatible with both.

Transcript of President George Washington's September 19, 1796 Farewell Address

Question
Use the speech to answer the question.

President George Washington delivered this farewell address before leaving office in 1796. What is President Washington’s purpose in this excerpt from his speech? Select the two correct answers.

(1 point)
Responses

to deliver a warning to the American people
to deliver a warning to the American people

to express his gratitude for being allowed to serve
to express his gratitude for being allowed to serve

to announce that he will not seek a third term
to announce that he will not seek a third term

to express his concern for his country’s future
to express his concern for his country’s future

to give his audience a call to action toward service

Answer 1

In the excerpt from President Washington's Farewell Address, the two correct answers that reflect his purpose are:

• to express his gratitude for being allowed to serve
• to announce that he will not seek a third term

These choices capture Washington's acknowledgment of the honor he felt serving as president and his decision to step down from the role, signaling to the nation his intention not to run for a third term.