…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 infidelity to existing engagements. i
hold the maxim [principle] no less applicable to
public than to private affairs, that honesty is
always the best policy. i repeat it, therefore, let
those engagements be observed in their genuine
sense. but, in my opinion, it is unnecessary and
would be unwise to extend them.…
— president george washington,
farewell address, 1796
president washington was offering this advice
because he believed
(1) the destiny of the united states was to rule
other countries
(2) the united states should seek alliances with
other nations
(3) alliances could draw the united states into
wars
(4) the united states should break its agreements
with france