George Washington was unanimously elected president of the Constitutional Convention of 1787, a founding event commemorated by America250.
The convention met in Philadelphia to address problems in the Articles of Confederation. Washington led Virginia’s delegation and arrived shortly before the convention began. On May 25, the delegates selected him to preside over their proceedings.
Washington’s reputation as the former commander of the Continental Army gave the convention significant public stature. His role was largely procedural rather than that of a principal drafter, but his presence helped lend legitimacy to the gathering and encouraged cooperation among delegates.
James Madison prepared an influential plan and kept extensive notes, while Benjamin Franklin was the convention’s oldest delegate. Washington later became the first president under the Constitution, taking the oath in New York City on April 30, 1789. His convention presidency and national presidency were separate offices.