As the United States navigates the turbulent international waters of the 21st century, the time has come to reconsider the fundamental principles of our foreign policy. Nearly three centuries after George Washington’s birth, the first president’s strategic outlook—what international relations scholars Alta Moini and Christopher Mott call Washington realism—has changed in today’s complex geopolitical arena. provides a timeless blueprint for protecting America’s interests. In an era marked by the rise of China, lingering turmoil in the Middle East, and conflict in Ukraine, Washington’s pragmatic approach deserves a resurgence among modern policymakers.
Contrary to what some people think, Washingtonian realism is not just a relic of the 18th century, but a living philosophy defending America’s unique geopolitical superiority. From his days leading militias on the colonial frontier to his presidency, Washington believed that America’s strength lies in its natural geography, its ability to come together despite myriad differences, and its prudent diplomacy with foreign powers. I understood something. This approach does not mean retreating from global engagement, but rather a more thoughtful and selective engagement with the world that closely aligns with our national interests. Washington’s pragmatism enabled the fledgling republic to navigate the treacherous waters of international politics without sacrificing its autonomy or prosperity.
What would George Washington’s foreign policy be like if he were alive today? Three key characteristics defined his approach: an emphasis on national unity, a desire for economic self-sufficiency, and a keen understanding of America’s geographic advantages and unique place in the world.
In today’s context, Washingtonian realism first requires us to work on strengthening the bonds of national unity. Washington was concerned about the potential for division caused by partisan politics, especially differences in foreign policy. Today, as we face an increasingly polarized domestic political climate, he will encourage us to find common ground on what truly sets America apart from the rest of the world. Developing a foreign policy that Americans can support across political lines means having clear objectives, being transparent about our goals, and understanding how international engagement serves our collective interests. It means showing beyond any doubt that it is useful.
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Next, it is important to focus on economic resilience, particularly through a strong manufacturing sector. Washington and Treasury Secretary Alexander Hamilton recognized the critical importance of fostering an economy that promoted domestic manufacturing alongside international trade. This strategic focus was aimed at minimizing America’s dependence on European powers for industrial products and ensuring America’s economic independence and strength on the world stage. Today, facing an environment in which China has become the world’s “sole manufacturing power,” it is essential to once again respect this fundamental principle. Policymakers will build a sustainable, innovative, production-oriented economy that supports quality jobs for Americans, reduces the vulnerability of global supply chains, and positions the United States as a leader in the technologies that will shape the 21st century. Needs to be rebuilt.
Finally, in international trade, Washington Realism advocates a pragmatic approach that emphasizes mutual respect and partnerships based on common goals. As Washington understood at the time, U.S. alliances and partnerships must be mutually beneficial and consistent with U.S. strategic interests. This does not mean turning our backs on the world, but rather engaging with our international partners in ways that respect American values and interests.
Implementing such an approach today requires a reassessment of current foreign policy. For example, America’s provision of security to Europe has long been seen as a kind of right. Naturally, our allies do not want to be put in the politically dangerous position of having to raise taxes or cut welfare in order to maintain their defense. However, this is no reason to burden the United States. Allies are not dependents, and Americans have pressing concerns about domestic spending and taxes.
Ultimately, Washington realism is about pragmatism, strategic flexibility, and principled engagement with the world, favoring diplomacy and cooperation over unilateralism. It defends the idea that America’s foreign policy should reflect the common sense of its great statesmen. He advocates an approach that integrates the wisdom of the past with the realities of the present.
In embracing Washingtonian realism for 21st century America, we will do more than just honor the insight of our first president. We will recognize the need for a foreign policy that stays true to our fundamental principles while adapting to the challenges of a changing world.
This is an American foreign policy that inspires broad support, bridges divides, and reinforces the idea that America’s strength in diplomacy, as in all things, is rooted in unity, democracy, and a commitment to the common good. This is the vision of
Carlos Roa is a Washington Associate Fellow at the Institute for Peace and Diplomacy and a Visiting Fellow at the Danube Institute. He is a former editor-in-chief of the National Interest and currently serves as a contributing editor to that publication.
The views expressed in this article are the author’s own.
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