Who was the first president of the United States, a foundational figure commemorated by America250?

George Washington was the first president of the United States, serving from 1789 to 1797.

Washington had already become nationally prominent as commander in chief of the Continental Army during the American Revolutionary War. After the Constitution created a stronger federal government, the Electoral College unanimously chose him as the first president. He took the oath of office in New York City on April 30, 1789.

Washington established precedents that shaped the presidency, including forming a cabinet and voluntarily leaving office after two terms. His Farewell Address warned against permanent foreign entanglements and intense political factionalism. He was succeeded by John Adams in 1797.

Washington is sometimes confused with the first president under the Articles of Confederation, a different office held by presidents of Congress. His role as the first president under the Constitution makes him the canonical answer to this question.