Proclamation+of+Neutrality

Proclamation of Neutrality In 1793, President George Washington proclaimed the nation's neutrality rather than take sides in a war between Britain and France. In issuing the Proclamation of Neutrality, did Washington: • Take the best course of action, since the U.S. did not want to upset either France, its Revolutionary War ally, or Great Britain, its main trading partner? (PRO) • Overstep his authority, since the Constitution gave Congress the power to declare war, which also implied the authority to choose to remain at peace? (CON)

Pro: Washington did the right thing because either way it would end badly.

CON: Washington had no right, It was not up to him to choose whether we needed the Proclamation of Neutrality or not.

Pro: As the president it was his right to keep the country safe from other countries.

CON: No it was not. Congress had that power, Washington did not. The Constitution gave Congress that right and only Congress. It was Congresses choice to either stay at peace or go to war.

Pro: If the U.S. sided with france britan would stop trading. If we sided with britan we would've broke our alliance with france.

CON: It does not matter! The executive branch exceeded its authority in claiming authority over foreign policy. It seems to violate the forms and spirit of the Constitution.

Pro: It is the President's job to execute the constitution

CON: But if the Constitution gave Congress that power the president has no right taking action. Washington therefore exceeded his authority and violated the treaty with France. Washington was acting like a king rather that a president, and of seeking to become an ally of Britain.

Pro: He did not break the treaty with France because he didn't take sides

CON: The right to declare war implied the right to decide to remain out of war. Therefore, they said, Congress was better suited to issue a Proclamation of Neutrality.

CON: But if the Constitution gave Congress the right president Washington should not have taken any action. It was not right! It was Congresses choice and only theres!\

PRO:  The president is the constitutional EXECUTOR of the laws.