George Washington became the first U.S. president under the Constitution, a founding milestone connected with America250.
Washington took the oath of office in New York City on April 30, 1789. The new federal government operated under the Constitution, which had been drafted in 1787 and ratified by the required states in 1788.
Before becoming president, Washington commanded the Continental Army during the American Revolutionary War and presided over the Constitutional Convention. His military reputation and national standing helped make him the unanimous choice of presidential electors in 1789.
Washington served two terms, from 1789 to 1797. He established important precedents for the office, including forming a cabinet and voluntarily leaving after two terms. John Adams, not Thomas Jefferson, became his vice president. Jefferson later served as the third president, while Madison became the fourth.