When the United States of America was officially established with the ratification of the U.S. Constitution in 1788, there was no question who would lead the new nation as its first President. George Washington, the former Commander in Chief of the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War, was unanimously chosen to become the nation’s inaugural president.
Washington’s reputation as a strong military leader, staunch patriot, and respected political figure made him the clear choice to direct the country through its fragile early years. He would establish important precedents in his eight years as president before retiring in 1797. To this day, George Washington remains one of the most admired Founding Fathers and venerable political leaders in U.S. history.
Washington’s Background and Character
Born in 1732 to a Virginia planter family, George Washington initially pursued a career as a land surveyor before becoming drawn into military and political service. His experience as a colonel during the French and Indian War prepared him for his pivotal role in the American Revolution.
Washington was regarded for his courage under fire, leadership capabilities, and concern for the welfare of his troops. His physical stature and subdued demeanor commanded respect. Washington also refused offers to seize political power, establishing his commitment to democracy and civilian rule.
After leading the fledgling Continental Army to victory over the British, Washington resigned rather than declare himself monarch. These acts defined his sterling character and made him the obvious choice later to become the first U.S. president.
Unanimous Election
On February 4, 1789 George Washington was unanimously elected president by all 69 presidential electors from the original 13 states. This result was anticipated given Washington’s fame and long-standing service to the cause of American independence.
The election took place after ratification of the new U.S. Constitution, which established the Electoral College system for selecting the president. This first election saw electors vote for two candidates with the second place becoming vice president. John Adams came in second to become the nation’s first vice president.
Washington remains the only president to have received 100% of electoral votes. His unquestioned credibility and support during this uncertain era allowed him to easily defeat opponents in both the 1789 and 1792 presidential elections.
Tenure as President
Washington served two four-year terms as president from April 30, 1789 to March 4, 1797. He remains the only president to have led the nation from the office’s very inception.
As the inaugural president, Washington was acutely aware that his actions would establish precedents for those who followed him in office. He conducted himself with dignity, restraint, and impartiality to give the presidency legitimacy and stability.
Major events and actions during Washington’s administrations included suppressing the Whiskey Rebellion, opening trade with China, signing the Jay Treaty with Britain, and issuing his farewell address cautioning against political factionalism.
Throughout his tenure, Washington insisted on non-partisanship and non-interference from Congress in setting policy for the executive branch. He declined to seek a third term due to his age, fatigue, and desire to set an example of observing presidential term limits.
Enduring Legacy
George Washington left the office of president with enhanced prestige and his historical reputation firmly cemented. His judgment, restraint, and conduct lent credibility to the presidency as an institution.
He demonstrated that peaceful, democratic transitions of power were achievable in America. The precedents he set guided future presidents for generations.
Washington remains universally honored for his instrumental leadership in the country’s founding. The capital city Washington D.C. bears his name, as does the state of Washington. His birthday is celebrated as a federal holiday.
Nearly 250 years later, George Washington is still revered as the “Father of His Country” and remains first in the hearts of his countrymen for leading the nation as its inaugural president.
FAQs About George Washington’s Presidency
When did George Washington become the first president?
George Washington became the first president on April 30, 1789 when he was administered the oath of office on the balcony of Federal Hall in New York City, the initial U.S. capital.
How many terms did Washington serve as president?
George Washington served two four-year terms as president from 1789-1797. He declined to run for a third term, retiring after 8 years.
What was Washington’s greatest accomplishment as president?
Washington’s greatest accomplishment was successfully giving the new office of the presidency stability, respect, and legitimacy both domestically and internationally through his strong leadership and conduct.
Where did Washington deliver his inaugural address?
Washington delivered the first-ever presidential inaugural address on April 30, 1789 in the Senate Chamber of Federal Hall in New York City.
Did Washington belong to a political party as president?
No, George Washington refused to formally align himself with the Federalist or Democratic-Republican parties that were developing, believing the president should be nonpartisan.
So in summary, George Washington was unanimously selected to become the first president of the United States in 1789, setting the nation on a stable path forward with his strong leadership and conduct in office. His presidency established enduring institutional precedents and credibility.
