George Washington on Profane Swearing
Story★★★★General George Washington issued the following on August 3, 1776: I am sorry tc be informed that the foolish and wicked practice of profane swearing, a vice heretofore little known in an American army, is growing into fashion. I h ope that the officers will, by example and influence, endeavor tc check it, and that both they and their men will reflect, that we have but little hope of the blessing of heaven in our arms, if we insult Him by our impiety and folly. Added tc this it is a vice so mean and low, without any temptation, that every man of sense and character detests and despises it.
The point
George Washington's 1776 military order condemning profane swearing, appealing to officers to set an example and recognize the need for God's blessing.
Audience
Adults
Tone
Authoritative · Moral
To tell aloud
under a minute · 110 words