George Washington was inaugurated as the first U.S. president on April 30, 1789, a new-government milestone connected with America250.
The ceremony took place on the balcony of Federal Hall in New York City, then the nation’s capital. Chancellor Robert Livingston of New York administered the presidential oath before a large public crowd. Vice President John Adams had already assumed his duties on April 21 by presiding over the Senate.
Washington’s inauguration marked the practical beginning of the executive branch under the Constitution. The first presidential term had officially begun on March 4, but delays prevented the federal government from operating fully on that date. Congress had to organize, count the electoral votes, and certify Washington’s election before the ceremony could occur.
Washington had been elected unanimously by the Electoral College in the first presidential election. He was reelected unanimously in 1792 and served until March 4, 1797. John Adams succeeded him, establishing the first peaceful transfer of the presidency between elected leaders.