That a national university in this country is a thing to be desired, has always been my decided opinion

That a national university in this country is a thing to be desired, has always been my decided opinion

George Washington, the first President of the United States, was a strong advocate for the establishment of a national university in the country. He firmly believed that such an institution was essential for the advancement of education, research, and the overall development of the nation. In a letter to Marquis de Lafayette in 1785, Washington expressed his opinion on the matter, stating that "That a national university in this country is a thing to be desired, has always been my decided opinion."

Washington's support for a national university can be traced back to his belief in the importance of education as a means of fostering intellectual growth and progress. He understood that a well-educated populace was crucial for the success and prosperity of the young nation. By establishing a national university, Washington hoped to provide a platform for the cultivation of knowledge and the training of future leaders in various fields.

Furthermore, Washington recognized the need for a centralized institution that could serve as a hub for research and innovation. A national university would not only promote academic excellence but also facilitate collaboration among scholars, scientists, and thinkers from different parts of the country. This, in turn, would contribute to the advancement of science, technology, and culture in the United States.