Washington wrote his farewell address near the end of his presidency when it was clear he would not be running again.
He warned the people against disunity. Unity is the "main pillar in the edifice of your independence." The American people should think of themselves as Americans above members of their states. The US should not have an "overgrown military" and shouldn't get involved in foreign wars. The Constitution is better than the old Articles, and even though it is based on the people's right to change their government, they must wait and oblige the Constitution until it is changed. The people shouldn't form political parties because that would be divisive. The parties may bring liberty in a monarchy, but they only distract in a republic. Religion is the moral basis of public prosperity. The government should achieve a balanced budget and avoid taking on debt. He defends his Proclamation of Neutrality, wanting the US to stay isolated and avoid foreign entanglements.
Through the opening and closing Washington is humble, saying that any accomplishments during his presidency were due to the people's support. He approaches his farewell address as "the counsels of an old friend," and he did not mean to make a strong impression.
photo- http://www.loc.gov/exhibits/religion/rel06.html
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