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George Washington emerged out of the American Revolution as an unlikely
champion of liberty. On June 14, 1775, the Second Continental Congress
created the Continental Army, and John Adams, serving in the Congress,
nominated Washington to be its first commander. Washington fought under
the British during the French and Indian War, and his experience and prestige
proved instrumental to the American war effort. Washington provided
invaluable leadership, training, and strategy during the Revolutionary War. He
emerged from the war as the embodiment of liberty and freedom from
tyranny.
After vanquishing the heavily favored British forces, Washington could have
pronounced himself as the autocratic leader of the former colonies without
any opposition, but he famously refused and returned to his Mount Vernon
plantation. His restraint proved his commitment to the fledgling state's
republicanism. Washington was later unanimously elected as the first
American president. But it is Washington's farewell address that cemented his
legacy as a visionary worthy of study.
In 1796, President Washington issued his farewell address by public letter.
Washington enlisted his good friend, Alexander Hamilton, in drafting his
most famous address. The letter expressed Washington's faith in the
Constitution and rule of law. He encouraged his fellow Americans to put aside
partisan differences and establish a national union. Washington warned
Americans against meddling in foreign affairs and entering military alliances.
Additionally, he stated his opposition to national political parties, which he
considered partisan and counterproductive.
Americans would be wise to remember Washington's farewell, especially
during presidential elections when politics hits a fever pitch. They might want
to question the political institutions that were not planned by the Founding Fathers, such as the nomination process and political parties themselves.
In which of the following materials would the author be most likely to include this passage?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: A history textbook is the most appropriate place for the passage about George Washington because it provides historical context, factual information, and analysis of significant events related to his life and contributions. The passage discusses Washington's role in the American Revolution, his leadership during the Revolutionary War, his decision to step down after the war, his farewell address, and his views on governance and foreign affairs. This type of detailed historical content is commonly found in history textbooks. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because an obituary focuses on a person's death and life achievements in a brief manner, a fictional story is based on imagination and creativity, and a newspaper editorial typically presents opinions on current events or issues rather than historical accounts.