George Washington on Public Debt, Religion and Morality, and Political Parties

He’s known in our history books as the man who was “first in war, first in peace, and first in the hearts of his countrymen.” This week, as we celebrate our Independence Day, it seems only fitting to hear remarks from our first President of these United States in this special July the Fourth edition of All Things Southern. After taking his first oath of office as President on April 30th, 1789, George Washington added four words that are still used in official oaths today, “So help me God.” Seven and a half years later, on Sept 19th. 1796, after serving two terms and expressing an eagerness to retire from public life, George Washington gave his farewell address to this nation. Included in that speech were the following remarks.

On public credit…”Avoid likewise the accumulation of debt, not only by shunning occasions of expense, but by vigorous exertions in time of peace to discharge the debts which unavoidable wars have occasioned, not ungenerously throwing upon posterity the burden which we ourselves ought to bear…”

On religion and morality… “Of all the dispositions and habits which lead to political prosperity, religion and morality are indispensable supports. In vain would that man claim the tribute of patriotism, who should labor to subvert these great pillars of human happiness, these firmest props of the duties of men and citizens…Let it simply be asked: Where is the security for property, for reputation, for life, if the sense of religious obligation desert the oaths which are the instruments of investigation in courts of justice? And let us with caution indulge the supposition that morality can be maintained without religion…”

And on politics…Vigilant to warn his countrymen about the potential danger of political parties dividing the nation, George Washington left his post with this admonition on patriotism…”The name of AMERICAN, which belongs to you in your national capacity, must always exalt the just pride of patriotism more than any appellation.”

Hugs,
Shellie

P.S. You’ll find these words from George Washinton in this week’s video. (And you can find that video in the media player on the home page or at this Youtube address. I added patriotic music and pictures from across America. I hope you enjoy my tribute to these great United States of America!