For America250, which leader became the first president of the United States in 1789?

George Washington became the first president of the United States in 1789. He took the oath of office in New York City on April 30, beginning the nation’s first presidential administration under the Constitution.

Washington had already gained national fame as commander in chief of the Continental Army during the American Revolutionary War. His reputation for leadership helped unite supporters of the new federal government, and the Electoral College chose him unanimously in both 1788–1789 and 1792.

Washington served two terms, from 1789 to 1797, and voluntarily retired afterward. John Adams succeeded him. Although Washington is often called a Founding Father, he did not write the Declaration of Independence or the Constitution; his most prominent constitutional role was presiding over the 1787 Philadelphia Convention.