Who was the first President of the United States?

George Washington was the first President of the United States, taking office on April 30, 1789. His leadership set many precedents for the office and for the functioning of the new government after the American Revolutionary War. Washington's presidency was pivotal in establishing the role of the president within the framework of a democratic republic, and he is often referred to as a founding father of the nation. His decisions, such as voluntarily stepping down after two terms, helped to shape the tradition of a peaceful transfer of power in American politics.

In contrast, John Adams succeeded Washington as the second president, Thomas Jefferson followed as the third, and James Madison became the fourth. While all of these individuals were significant leaders in American history, it was George Washington who was elected as the first president and instrumental in guiding the United States through its early years.