Washington is often credited with setting the principle of a two-term presidency, but it was Thomas Jefferson who first refused to run for a third term on political grounds.[354]

Farewell Address
Main article: George Washington's Farewell Address
Washington's Farewell Address, published September 19, 1796
In 1796, Washington declined to run for a third term of office, believing his death in office would create an image of a lifetime appointment. His retirement established a precedent for a two-term limit on the U.S. presidency.[355] In May 1792, in anticipation of his retirement, Washington instructed James Madison to prepare a "valedictory address", an initial draft of which was entitled the "Farewell Address".[356] In May 1796, Washington sent the manuscript to his Secretary of Treasury Alexander Hamilton who did an extensive rewrite, while Washington provided final edits.[357] On September 19, 1796, David Claypoole's American Daily Advertiser published the final version of the address.[358]
Washington stressed that national identity was paramount, while a united America would safeguard freedom and prosperity. 