George Washington became the first president under the United States Constitution, a figure central to America250 history.
Washington took the oath of office on April 30, 1789, at Federal Hall in New York City. The Electoral College had unanimously elected him, making him the only U.S. president to receive every electoral vote in either of his elections. John Adams became vice president.
Washington had commanded the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War and later presided over the Constitutional Convention. His reputation for military leadership and public service made him the leading choice for the new executive office. He served two terms, from 1789 to 1797, and declined to seek a third.
The first presidency established practices that later administrations followed, including the use of a cabinet and the title “President of the United States.” Washington’s first inauguration occurred before the federal government moved permanently to Washington, D.C.; Philadelphia served as the national capital from 1790 to 1800.