George Washington has been the most reluctant president in American history. He didn't want the job, and he only stuck around for two terms because other people convinced him he couldn't leave yet. Part of his reluctance had to do with his lack of confidence in his own abilities. His farewell address is peppered with moments where he injects some subtle self-deprecation into all the politics.
Washington's moments of humility make him seem, well, more human. With all the lofty political ideals and sophisticated writing, the reader is reminded that Washington is just a guy who's still figuring it out.
Questions About Humility
- How does Washington's humility affect the overall impact of the speech for the reader?
- Do the moments of humility strengthen or undermine Washington's political advice? Or neither?
- Does the humility of the farewell address make sense given what we know about him and his presidency?
- What do you think would be the appeal of adding humility into a farewell address, either for the audience or the speaker?
Chew on This
Washington could have become super arrogant about setting the bar for future U.S. presidents, but he genuinely wasn't sure he was doing a good job.
Washington's humility could either make his arguments more convincing, by endearing him to the audience, or make them less convincing by making the audience question his credentials.