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About this quote

What does it mean?
Washington notes the unique tolerance of political and religious groups in the country.
In plain terms
Political and religious tolerance in this country is unmatched historically.
What can you take from it?
Tolerance across groups is a rare national strength.

Where it applies

  • political debates
  • interfaith dialogue
  • civic education

Putting it to work

  • promote religious tolerance
  • celebrate diversity in politics

Questions to consider

  • Is tolerance natural or learned?
  • What makes a society unique?

Another view

This view may overlook historical instances of intolerance.

More from George Washington

  1. The foolish and wicked practice of profane cursing and swearing is a vice so mean and low that every person of sense and character detests and despises it.

    Permalink to quote #108
  2. The marvel of all history is the patience with which men and women submit to burdens unnecessarily laid upon them by their governments.

    Permalink to quote #110
  3. Our country's honor calls upon us for a vigorous and manly exertion; and if we now shamefully fail, we shall become infamous to the whole world.

    Permalink to quote #107

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