George Washington was particularly concerned about two main issues: slavery and neutrality in foreign affairs. Regarding slavery, Washington recognized the moral and revolutionary dilemma it posed. Although he personally opposed slavery and hoped for its gradual abolition, he was cautious about publicly confronting it during his presidency because he feared it would divide the fragile new nation and threaten its unity. The institution was deeply entrenched, especially in southern states, and Washington sought to balance his personal beliefs with political realities, supporting gradual legislative solutions and compromises to keep the union intact without sparking sectional conflicts. He did sign laws limiting the slave trade but avoided direct public engagement with abolitionist petitions, reflecting his concern about causing unrest.
In terms of foreign policy, Washington was deeply concerned about keeping the United States neutral amid the conflict between Britain and France following the French Revolution. He feared that taking sides would embroil the young nation in costly and dangerous wars. Washington issued the Neutrality Proclamation to assert impartiality, aiming to secure national security and prevent internal divisions caused by partisan support for either side. This stance was guided by Washington’s desire to maintain independence, financial stability, and peace while managing conflicting sympathies between factions within his administration and the country.
Thus, Washington's concern about these two issues—slavery and foreign neutrality—stemmed from his broader goal of preserving national unity and security during the fragile early years of the United States.
