… 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