ZOOM - George Washington's Farewell Address, 1796

This September marks the 225th anniversary of this wonderful literary effort by the first President (he did have assistance from Alexander Hamilton).  This fascinating address is rife with prognostications by the first Chief Executive, many of which have come to pass:  Over-bloated militaries, the factionalism of political parties; the problems with taxation; foreign influence in government; military alliances as threats to the Constitution, the necessity of Union. . .   From a man who set the stage of the two-term president for more than a century, as a true example of American Exceptionalism.  No law, resolution, amendment to the Constitution was required.  Every occupant of the Oval Office followed Washington's example.

Mark Albertson is the historical research editor for the Army Aviation magazine, and the historian for the Army Aviation Association of America. He has taught classes on military history at Norwalk Community College as well as the Lifetime Learners Institute. Albertson has authored several books on military history.

Like all Southbury Public Library programs, this event is free to attend and open to anyone regardless of town of residency. Registration is required. This program is sponsored by the Friends of the Southbury Public Library. For more information about this program, please email Rebecca at rrandall@biblio.org or call the reference desk at 203-262-0626 ext 130.