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
9 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