Compare And Contrast George Washington's Farewell Address

1. Washington’s Farewell Address - In 1796, George Washington wrote and published his farewell address on September 19th. He had decided to resign from his position as the first President of the United States and wanted to give his final words of advice to the people of the US. Washington praises the success of the US, but suggests his ideals of keeping the US a neutral party in terms of foreign affairs and the avoidance of permanent alliances. He also warns the American people about the dangers of a republic form of government, although it has its benefits. Washington’s purpose for his farewell address was to properly announce his leaving of office and to advise the people who are in control of the country to keep its longevity instead of …show more content…
Alien and Sedition Acts - In response to the war with France, the Alien and Sedition Acts were passed in fear of another war with a foreign country. The acts were a series of laws that were passed in 1798 by the Federalist Congress and signed into the law by John Adams. The Naturalization Act complicated the citizenship process and the Alien Act gave the president the power to deport foreigners if they were seen as a threat. Along with the Alien Act, there was the Alien Enemy Act, which gave the government the rights to arrest and deport citizens of countries the US was at war with. Unlike the three other acts, the Sedition Act was different because it prohibited public disagreement with the government. The government could arrest or fine those who spoke of or published anything that opposed the authority of the government. This act contradicts the US citizen’s individual right to freedom of speech and …show more content…
War of 1812 - Because of the British being upset over the Embargo Act, the United States declared war against the British in 1812. They had become fed up with the British interference in American shipping, the restrictions on the US because of the British’s conflict with France, Native American support for the English, and impressments the US’ seamen. The war was fought between the US and the British forces, which consisted of Canadian militia and Native American allies. The war was fought mainly on North American land, but also ranged out into the Atlantic Ocean where the two navies battled. Many battles ranging from the Great Lakes to the Gulf of Mexico coast took place. The war sported poor communications between the two countries when it was necessary, resulting in an uncalled for