Question
ExCerPL #1
..However combinations or associations of the above description [parties] may now and then
answer popular ends, they are likely, in the course of time and things, to become potent engines,
by which cunning, ambitious, and unprincipled men will be enabled to subvert the power of the
people, and to usurp for themselves the reins of government; destroying afterwards the very
engines, which have lifted them to unjust dominion.
I have already intimated to you the danger of parties in the State, with particular reference to
founding them on geographical discriminations. Let me now take a more comprehensive view,
and warn you, in the most solemn manner, against the baneful effects of the Spirit of Party,
generally.
This spirit, unfortunately, is inseparable from our nature, having its root in the strongest
passions of the human mind. It exists under different shapes, in all governments, more or less
stifled, controlled or repressed; but in those of the popular form, it is seen in its greatest
rankness, and is truly their worst enemy.
The alternate dominion of one faction over another, sharpened by the spirit of revenge, natural to
party dissension, which in different ages and countries, has perpetrated the most horrid
enormities, is itself a frightful despotism; but this leads at length to more formal and permanent
despotism. The disorders and miseries which result, gradually incline the minds of men to seek
security and repose in the absolute power of an Individual.
1. What situation in American society is Washington referring to in this portion of his
address?
Answer
Washington is referring to the danger of political parties in the United States, and the potential for ambitious and unprincipled men to use them to gain power and subvert the will of the people.