preview

George Washington Neutrality

Decent Essays

George Washington

George Washington is often noted for his accomplishments as both the first President of the United States and for his bravery during the French Revolution, but his seemingly unpopular actions displayed true integrity and will to do what is best for his country. He placed the well-being of the United States before his personal beliefs. Although opponents will often disagree, President Washington’s decision to ratify Jay’s Treaty in 1795 provided the United States with a necessary alliance that ultimately neutralized future relations with Great Britain and set the precedent for executive power. After signing the Treaty of Paris in 1783 that ended the Revolutionary War which granted the United States its independence from Britain, tension remained constant between the two nations. Prior to Jay’s Treaty, Washington announced a Proclamation of Neutrality in 1793 that proclaimed the United States’ bipartisanism in the war between France and Great Britain. He believed America was too young and unstable to risk a conflict with another country. In remaining neutral, Washington hoped to preserve crucial trade relations with both countries (“The Proclamation of Neutrality 1793”). During the French Revolution, the British were still allowed to export goods to be sold in the American markets, yet would not allow American ships to use British ports. Britain imposed tariffs and restrictions on American trade, leading to even more tension between the two nations

Get Access