Who was the first president of the United States?

The first president of the United States was George Washington, serving from 1789 to 1797. His leadership was pivotal in establishing the new nation's government and setting precedents for how the executive branch would function. Washington's presidency followed his considerable contributions during the American Revolutionary War, where he was Commander-in-Chief of the Continental Army.

His election was significant not only because he was a leading figure in the founding of the country but also because the surrounding circumstances of creating the office of the presidency were unprecedented. Washington chose to build a government that avoided monarchy, demonstrating a commitment to republican values. His choice to step down after two terms established a strong precedent of limited presidential tenure, which would influence the country's democratic evolution. Washington’s legacy as the first president and his role in both the military and governmental foundations of the United States solidify his place in history as the nation's inaugural leader.