George Washington was the first president of the United States, taking office in 1789. His presidency established many precedents for the new constitutional government celebrated during America250.
Washington had already become a major national figure as commander in chief of the Continental Army during the American Revolutionary War. After the war, he presided over the 1787 Constitutional Convention, which drafted the Constitution.
The Electoral College unanimously elected Washington in both 1789 and 1792. He was inaugurated at Federal Hall in New York City on April 30, 1789, with Robert R. Livingston administering the oath. John Adams became his vice president.
A common mix-up is confusing Washington's military leadership with the presidency of John Adams, who succeeded him in 1797. Washington served two terms and voluntarily retired, helping establish the tradition of a peaceful transfer of presidential power.