English: stippling engraving of James Madison, Pre...
Depiction by John Trumbull of Washington resigning...
James Madison, half-length portrait, seated, facin...Throughout the history of The United States there have been presidents that have made a profound impact on the stability of their government. Following the formation of the United States after the victory of the US in the Revolutionary War and the adoption of the US Constitution; George Washington, John Adams, and James Madison all helped to improve the stability of the new found country through their foreign policies. First of all, Washington, believing that it was his responsibility to deal with foreign policy; believed that the best course of action was for the US to remain neutral in the war between France and Britain. Secondly, John Adams helped to raise the awareness of the US citizens about the US diplomacy problems in France. Finally, James Madison rallied the American citizens to support the US in their struggle with Britain. These presidents all played an important role in the stabilization of the United States government.
Washington helped to convince the US that during their early days it was not wise to enter into another war with the leading powers of Europe. Early in his administration Washington determined that it was his responsibility to deal with foreign policy. This interpretation of the US Constitution allowed Washington to declare neutrality in the war between France and England that followed the French Revolution. When the war began Washington's Secretary of State Thomas Jefferson suggested that the US side with the French because the French were fighting for the same things that the US had fought for in the American Revolution. On the other hand Secretary of the Treasury Alexander Hamilton thought that it would be more beneficial to side with the English because of the trade that they provided. Washington refused to accept entirely the recommendations of both of these well...