George Washington became the first president of the United States, whose leadership is central to America250 history.
Washington served two terms, from April 30, 1789, to March 4, 1797. Before becoming president, he commanded the Continental Army during the American Revolutionary War and led the American and French victory at Yorktown in 1781.
The Constitution created the presidency, but it did not provide a detailed model for every presidential practice. Washington established precedents such as forming a cabinet, delivering an inaugural address, and voluntarily leaving office after two terms.
John Adams succeeded Washington as the second president. Thomas Jefferson served as the third and had been Washington’s secretary of state. Washington’s role is sometimes blended with the later presidency of Abraham Lincoln, but Washington belongs to the founding era commemorated by the 250th anniversary of American independence.