It is important ... that the habits of thinking in a free Country should inspire caution in those entrusted with its administration, to confine themselves within their respective Constitutional Spheres; avoiding in the exercise of the Powers of one depart
" It is important ... that the habits of thinking in a free Country should inspire caution in those entrusted with its administration, to confine themselves within their respective Constitutional Spheres; avoiding in the exercise of the Powers of one department to encroach upon another. "
Farewell Address to the People of the United States | Monday, September 19, 1796
Editorial Notes
On September 19, 1796, Washington informed the nation that he would not elect to serve a third term as president. In this “Farewell Address,” he stressed issues of constitutional practice, including the importance of the separate branches of government as representations of public opinion.
