Who became the first president of the United States after the Constitution took effect?

George Washington became the first president of the United States after the Constitution took effect.

Washington was unanimously elected by the Electoral College in 1789 and took the oath of office in New York City on April 30 of that year. John Adams became vice president. Washington served two four-year terms, from 1789 to 1797.

Before the presidency, Washington commanded the Continental Army during the American Revolutionary War. His leadership helped secure victory and made him a prominent national figure when the Constitution was drafted and ratified.

Washington’s presidency belongs to the generation that followed the 1776 declaration. America250 connects these milestones by commemorating the founding declaration while also inviting attention to the early government built after independence. Washington’s voluntary departure after two terms became an influential precedent.