Who was the first president of the United States?

The story behind the answer

George Washington was the first president of the United States, serving from 1789 to 1797. Unanimously chosen by the Electoral College, he took the oath on April 30, 1789, in New York City, then the temporary capital. His leadership in the Revolutionary War and at the Constitutional Convention made him the trusted, unifying choice.

Washington set crucial precedents: creating a cabinet, asserting civilian control of the military, promoting neutrality in foreign affairs, and voluntarily stepping down after two terms—later enshrined by the 22nd Amendment. A memory tip: “General → George → Government”—the Revolutionary War general (George Washington) became the first leader of the new federal government. Known as the “Father of His Country,” he shaped the presidency’s role for all successors.