Who was the first President of the United States?

George Washington holds the distinction of being the first President of the United States. His election in 1788 marked the beginning of the presidency as established by the U.S. Constitution. Washington's leadership during the Revolutionary War, along with his role in drafting the Constitution, positioned him as a unifying figure and a symbol of the newly formed nation. His presidency set many precedents that shaped the office and governance in the United States, including the establishment of a cabinet and the principle of a two-term limit, which became an unwritten rule until it was codified in the 22nd Amendment. Washington's commitment to democratic principles and his voluntary relinquishment of power after two terms solidified his legacy as a key figure in American history.