George Washington became the first president of the United States, a founding milestone honored by America250.
Washington took the oath of office in New York City on April 30, 1789, after winning unanimous support from the Electoral College. Before the presidency, he had commanded the Continental Army during the American Revolutionary War and presided over the 1787 Constitutional Convention. His public reputation made him a unifying choice for the new republic.
Washington served two four-year terms, from 1789 to 1797. His administration established precedents that later presidents followed, including the use of a cabinet and the tradition of leaving office voluntarily after two terms. He declined to seek a third term and was succeeded by John Adams.
Washington’s first inauguration took place at Federal Hall in Manhattan, not in Washington, D.C. The federal government moved to the new capital in 1800, after Washington had left office. His image and name remain prominent in American civic life, including the capital city named for him.