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George Washington wrote a letter to Sultan Mohammed Ben Abdallah of Morocco in 1789, expressing the United States' gratitude for his friendship and protection. The letter also mentioned the US's change in government and its new Constitution.
Here's a more detailed breakdown of the letter:
Purpose:
The letter was a formal expression of thanks from the United States for Sultan Mohammed Ben Abdallah's previous friendly actions, particularly his protection of US citizens in their commerce with Morocco.
Gratitude:
Washington acknowledged the Sultan's "important mark of your friendship" and expressed the United States' sincere thanks.
New Government:
The letter also informed the Sultan about the United States' shift to a new government based on the Constitution, with a copy of the Constitution enclosed.
Sustained Friendship:
Washington assured the Sultan that he would continue to promote friendship and harmony between the United States and Morocco, highlighting the importance of the existing treaty of amity and commerce.
Context:
This letter was written shortly after the US established its new government under the Constitution. It also followed a period of diplomatic efforts by the US to secure trade with Morocco and other Barbary States.