How we cite our quotes: (Paragraph.Sentence)
Quote #1
The unity of government which constitutes you one people is also now dear to you. It is justly so, for it is a main pillar in the edifice of your real independence, the support of your tranquility at home, your peace abroad; of your safety; of your prosperity; of that very liberty which you so highly prize. (9.1-2)
The transition from the decentralized Articles of Confederation to the Constitution was a defining moment in America's political history. But not everyone was on board with the centralization of the federal government. Washington uses his farewell address to emphasize why a strong central government is the best way to go.
Quote #2
While, then, every part of our country thus feels an immediate and particular interest in union, all the parts combined cannot fail to find in the united mass of means and efforts greater strength, greater resource, proportionably greater security from external danger, a less frequent interruption of their peace by foreign nations […]. (13.1)
Washington's presidency featured a lot of fighting and tensions about the nature of government and foreign relations. So maybe it's not a big surprise that he's trying to emphasize the "united" part of the United States of America. It's amazing what we can accomplish when we work together. (Cue sappy motivational music.)
Quote #3
In contemplating the causes which may disturb our Union, it occurs as matter of serious concern that any ground should have been furnished for characterizing parties by geographical discriminations, Northern and Southern, Atlantic and Western; whence designing men may endeavor to excite a belief that there is a real difference of local interests and views. One of the expedients of party to acquire influence within particular districts is to misrepresent the opinions and aims of other districts. You cannot shield yourselves too much against the jealousies and heartburnings which spring from these misrepresentations; they tend to render alien to each other those who ought to be bound together by fraternal affection. (15.1-3)
The political history of the United States is riddled with issues related to the different regions of the country and how they get along—or don't. (We're talking about you, Civil War.) Washington very specifically tries to emphasize that all the different parts of the country are important, and one shouldn't be prioritized or marginalized.