Who was the first President of the United States?

The first President of the United States was George Washington. He took office on April 30, 1789, following the ratification of the United States Constitution in 1788. Washington was a central figure in the founding of the nation and is often referred to as the "Father of His Country." His leadership set many precedents for the office of the presidency, including the establishment of a cabinet and the tradition of serving two terms.

The other individuals listed played significant roles in American history but did not hold the position of the first president. Thomas Jefferson was the third president and is known for writing the Declaration of Independence. Abraham Lincoln, the sixteenth president, is famous for leading the country during the Civil War and for the Emancipation Proclamation. Theodore Roosevelt, the twenty-sixth president, is recognized for his progressive policies and conservation efforts. Each of these figures made substantial contributions to the United States, but they followed Washington in presidential succession.