The friends of humanity…

"The Boston Massacre" by Francis Luis Mora

“The friends of humanity will deprecate War, wheresoever it may appear; and we have experience enough of its evils, in this country, to know, that it should not be wantonly or unnecessarily entered upon. I trust, that the good citizens of the United States will show to the world, that they have as much wisdom in preserving peace at this critical juncture, as they have hitherto displayed valor in defending their just rights.” George Washington, Address to the merchants of Philadelphia, May 16, 1793

Read: What Was The Boston Massacre?

 

Happy the people…

"Washington with Adams and Jefferson during the 1793 Inauguration" by Jean Leon Gerome Ferris

“Happily, the people of the United States of America have, in many instances, exhibited examples worthy of imitation, the salutary influence of which will doubtless extend much farther, if, gratefully enjoying those blessings of peace, which, under the favor of Heaven, have been obtained by fortitude in war, they shall conduct themselves with reverence to the Deity, and charity towards their fellow-creatures. May the same wonder-working Deity, who long since delivered the Hebrews from their Egyptian oppressors, and planted them in the promised land, whose providential agency has lately been conspicuous in establishing these United States as an independent nation, still continue to water them with the dews of Heaven, and to make the inhabitants of every denomination participate in the temporal and spiritual blessings of that people, whose God is Jehovah.” George Washington

Psalm 33:12: Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord; and the people whom he hath chosen for his own inheritance.

Read: George Washington’s Letter to the Hebrew Congregation of the City of Savannah, May 1790

 

When we have chastised them…

Minutemen Confronting British Redcoats (Artist Unknown)

“When we have effectually chastised them, we may then listen to propositions for peace, and endeavour to draw further advantages from their fears. But even in this case, great caution will be necessary, to guard against the snares which their treachery may hold out.” George Washington

Read: George Washington’s Letter to Major-General Sullivan, May 31, 1979

 

To be prepared…

Parker's Revenge, 19th of April 1775 by Don Troiani

“To be prepared for War is one of the most effectual means of preserving peace.” George Washington

 

To be prepared for War…

"Washington Rallying the Americans at the Battle of Princeton" (1848) by William T. Ranney

“To be prepared for War is one of the most effectual means of preserving peace.” George Washington