George Washington on War and Peace

Found in: George Washington: A Collection

A newly elected President George Washington addressed his first “Annual Message to the fellow-citizens of the Senate and House of Representatives.” There was some discussion in political circles about what titles the newly elected members of the national government should adopt. Should Washington be called “His Majesty?” His Excellency? What would Washington call the members of the Congress? The language reminds us of how fresh and uncertain this remarkable experiment in representative government truly was.

Colonies, Slavery & Abolition

Among the many interesting objects which will engage your attention, that of providing for the common defence will merit particular regard. To be prepared for war, is one of the most effectual means of preserving peace…The welfare of our country is the great object to which our cares and efforts ought to be directed. (FROM 169: FIRST ANNUAL MESSAGE, Friday, January 8, 1790)

Thoughts

In referencing national defense Washington obviously had a special interest in maintaining the military capacity of the new nation in the face of continued interest from the powers of continental Europe in North America, specifically, and the Western Hemisphere generally. During Washington’s second term, France would try to drag the young United States into a European War, and only 22 years later the nation would be fighting the British again in the War of 1812. Much as Washington emphasized neutrality throughout his presidency, he believed it was only possible if the nation was strong enough to defend itself, and that meant a well equipped standing army and militia, which were touchy political subjects. Still, he recognized the risks of not being prepared along with the risks of having a professional military, and clearly erred on the side of being more concerned about European interference than a military coup.

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Titles by George Washington

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