Question

what does george washington mean when he says that the habits of thinking in a free country should inspire caution in those entrusted with its administration, to confine themselves within their respective constitutional spheres, avoiding in the exercise of the powers of one department to encroach upon another.

Answer 1

George Washington emphasized the importance of checks and balances within the government and warned against encroachment by one department over another to maintain separation of powers and prevent any single entity from gaining too much control.

Step-by-step explanation:

When George Washington spoke about the need for those in the administration of a free country to exercise caution and to confine themselves within their respective constitutional spheres, he was emphasizing the importance of checks and balances within the government.

Washington warned against encroachment by one department over another, reflecting his desire for a separation of powers to prevent any single entity from gaining too much control.

This cautionary principle was foundational for Washington who was not only the first president but also instrumental in defining the role of the presidency, ensuring it was balanced, not monarchial, and that it would cultivate a strong sense of nationhood without overstepping its bounds.