Short Answer 
In his 1796 farewell address, George Washington warned against the divisive nature of political parties, coining the term “spirit party” to highlight their potential to incite conflict and overshadow national unity. He urged Americans to prioritize their collective identity and common interests over partisan loyalty to prevent societal fragmentation and government weakness.
Step 1: Washington’s Warning
In his farewell address in 1796, George Washington delivered a profound caution to the American people against the influence of political parties. He recognized that these parties could stir up intense emotions and hostilities, which could overshadow the nation’s unity. His address was a compelling plea to prioritize national harmony over partisan allegiance.
Step 2: The ‘Spirit Party’ Concept
Washington introduced the term “spirit party” to describe the divisive nature of political factions. He argued that inherent passions tied to party loyalty could escalate tensions and conflict among citizens. This idea emphasized the potential for political disputes to spiral into hostile confrontations, posing a serious risk to the unity of the nation.
Step 3: Consequences of Division
Washington forewarned that allowing political parties to dominate could lead to a fragmented society and weakened government. He urged individuals to remain vigilant against divisive rhetoric that could compromise their collective identity as Americans. To avoid future conflicts, he advocated for the prioritization of the nation’s common interests over the ambitions of any single party.