Washington-History Project
Storyboard Text
- Slide: 1
- Washington led the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War. His commitment to independence in fighting for the colonies’ right to self-govern shows that he wanted to fight for freedom. During the entire Revolutionary war Washington served as the commanding general without a salary. This showed that Washington had experience with being a leader and he was able to understand the needs of the people, giving them freedom.
- George Washington viewed freedom as a key value for the development of both individuals and the nation. For Washington, freedom was more than just the prevention of oppression; but it represented the ability of citizens to self-govern within a political structure. He argued that it could only be maintained through a strong desire for individuals to balance their personal rights with their responsibilities toward the common good. Washington’s commitment to freedom was shaped by his experiences during the American Revolution, where he saw the sacrifices required to secure independence from dictatorship. However, he recognized that freedom should be tempered by unity, often cautioning against political factions that might implant division within the country. In his letter with the Jews of Newport, Washington stated the U.S. government's duty to uphold religious freedom and tolerance, stating that all citizens, regardless of their faith, would have the right to worship without fear of persecution. He stressed that the U.S. government would give "no sanction" to discrimination or persecution and that all individuals should contribute to the government as good citizens. This letter served as a foundational declaration on religious liberty, particularly important for Jewish Americans, reinforcing their rights as equal participants in the new republic.
- Slide: 2
- In his letters and speeches, George Washington consistently emphasized the importance of religious freedom and tolerance. When he stated that the United States' government does not "boycott discrimination against religions," he was advocating for a society where individuals could practice their faith without fear of persecution or legal consequence. Washington believed that the government should not favor one religion over another, nor should it prevent citizens from worshiping their faith.
- In his writings, George Washington continually highlighted the significance of religious freedom. When he mentioned that the government of the United States does not "boycott discrimination against religions," he was supporting a community in which people could express their beliefs without fear of persecution or legal repercussions. Washington supported the opinion that the government should not show preference to any particular religion, nor should it obstruct citizens from worshiping according to their own beliefs. This perspective is clear in his well-known letter to the Hebrew Congregation of Newport, Rhode Island, in 1790, where he expressed:
- “A Government, which to bigotry gives no sanction, to persecution no assistance—but generously affording to All liberty of conscience, and immunities of Citizenship”
- Slide: 3
- One example of Washington’s view on religious equality can be seen today in a court case between three muslims who feel their first ammendment right is being violated. The court case states, “ three Muslim Americans are challenging the FBI’s secret spying on them and their communities based on their religion, in violation of the Constitution and federal law. In what will likely be a landmark case, the plaintiffs — Yassir Fazaga, Ali Uddin Malik, and Yasser Abdelrahim — insist that the FBI cannot escape accountability for violating their religious freedom by invoking ‘state secrets.”’Washington’s emphasis on freedom amongst all religions has been a crucial trait that has been present since his presidency. Washington’s strong support of freedom is vital to many people around the world as it allows them to express their beliefs more freely.
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