High School

What is the meaning of the phrase "defy material injury from external annoyance" in Washington's Farewell Address?

Answer :

Final answer:

The phrase 'defy material injury from external annoyance' refers to Washington's advice for the nation to stand strong against any form of harm or threat from external sources. It symbolically signifies Washington's ideals of neutrality, independence, and national unity.

Explanation:

The phrase 'defy material injury from external annoyance' in Washington's Farewell Address refers to the concept of remaining resistant or immune to harm or damage from outside interferences or problems. It can be explained as a call for the young nation to fortify itself against any external threats that could undermine its sovereignty or stability.

Washington, known for promoting neutrality and avoiding entanglement in foreign alliances, is essentially encouraging the country to stand strong against external pressures that might lead to harm or compromise to their ideals, values, or tangible resources. This can be viewed as a part of his advice for maintaining national unity and maintaining a strong defense against potential enemies.

For instance, when he refers to 'defy material injury', the term 'material injury' symbolically represents any form of substantial harm – this could mean economic harm, political, or military harm. Accordingly, 'external annoyance' can be interpreted as anything outside the nation's control that can cause such harm, such as foreign political pressure, wars, or unfavorable trade conditions. Therefore, the essence of the phrase aligns with Washington's ideals of sustaining a strong, independent nation capable of withstanding external conflicts and trials.

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