Who was the first President of the United States?

The first President of the United States was George Washington, who took office on April 30, 1789. Washington is often referred to as the "Father of His Country" due to his pivotal role in the founding of the nation and his leadership during the American Revolutionary War. His presidency set many precedents for the office, including the tradition of serving only two terms. Washington's character and leadership style were instrumental in establishing the trust and respect necessary for the effectiveness of the president in a newly formed government.

The other individuals listed, while significant figures in U.S. history, served as presidents after Washington. Abraham Lincoln was the 16th president and is known for leading the nation during the Civil War. Thomas Jefferson, the third president, is celebrated for authoring the Declaration of Independence and for the Louisiana Purchase. John Adams, the second president, played a key role in advocating for independence and helped draft the Declaration of Independence. Washington's unique position as the inaugural president marks him as a foundational figure in American history.