Words Unheeded
by: Les Carpenter Rational Nation USA Birthplace of Independent Conservatism The year: 1796 The place: A Free Nation The setting: A farewell address from a true leader The impact: Obviously minimal It has been said those who fail to learn from the mistakes of the past {history}are doomed to repeat them. Given the present state of affairs it is certain those words words ring true. " Against the insidious wiles of foreign influence, (I conjure you to believe me fellow citizens) the jealousy of a free people ought to be constantly awake; since history and experience prove that foreign influence is one of the most baneful foes of Republican Government." I have pondered this excerpt from President George Washington's farewell address to the nation many times over. Each time I do his words serve to highlight his wisdom. It also leads one to the conclusion that as a nation we have chosen to learn little.