One of the most influential but misunderstood expressions of American political thought, George Washington's 1796 Farewell Address is placed in the full context of American history and the authors explain its enduring relevance for the next century. Generations of American political leaders have invoked the authority of the Address to shape foreign and domestic policy. With discussions about national character and personal responsibility dominating the current political landscape, there has been a resurgence of interest in the character of the nation's founders, particularly Washington's. The authors show how the Address expressed Washington's ideas for forming a national character that would cultivate the habits, morals, and civic virtues essential for stable republican self-government.

"Spalding's and Garrity's work is a convincing argument for the importance of Washington's ideas for our time." - American Historical Review

"Spalding and Garrity focus on the effect of Washington's character on the new republic on his speach . . . the book outlines Washington's efforts to impress his character traits on the new government and to establish its course." - Library Journal

". . . a definitive analysis of George Washington's farewell address . . ." - Booklist

"Two hundred years after The Farewell Address was published, Matthew Spalding and Patrick J. Garrity help Washington speak once more to his 'Friends and Fellow Citizens'." - National Review

"Spalding and Garrity show how George Washington was able to help shape the hearts of his countrymen—and how Washington's speeches and deeds can help shape them still. An intelligent and important work." - The Weekly Standard

"In this impressive volume, Mr. Spalding and Mr. Garrity see a great lesson in Washington's Farewell Address . . . . This book is a major contribution to Washington scholarship." - The Washington Times

"It is worth sampling and the Farewell Address itself is definantly worth reading . . ." - Richmond Times-Dispatch