“The Law of Nations” by Emerich de Vattel holds significant value and importance, particularly in George Washington’s era. This seminal work on international law and diplomacy was instrumental in shaping the principles of governance and international relations during the formative years of the United States.
Vattel’s treatise provides a comprehensive framework for understanding the rights and duties of nations, influencing the development of legal and diplomatic norms. For Washington, who was deeply involved in establishing a new nation’s government, the insights offered by Vattel would have been invaluable. The book’s emphasis on sovereignty, the conduct of war, and the treatment of foreign diplomats would have resonated with Washington as he navigated the complexities of leading a fledgling republic.
Moreover, “The Law of Nations” underscored the importance of adhering to international law and maintaining ethical standards in statecraft, which were crucial for the United States as it sought to assert its place globally. The fact that Washington borrowed this book highlights his commitment to informed leadership and his recognition of the necessity of grounding the new nation’s policies in established legal and diplomatic thought. Thus, Vattel’s work provided practical guidance for Washington and contributed to the broader intellectual foundation upon which the United States was built.