George Washington stood on the balcony of Federal Hall on Wall Street in New York City on April 30, 1789, and took the oath of office as the first President of the United States. Reflecting on this historic occasion, he wrote to James Madison, who later became the fourth President of the United States, “As the first of everything, will serve to set an example in our situation, it is devoutly desired on my part That these precedents may be decided on true principles.”
election process
The process of American elections in 1788–1789 differed from modern campaigns. At the time, candidates did not actively seek office due to public skepticism about overt political ambition. Instead, he subtly expressed his interest while supporters campaigned on his behalf. There were no established political parties, meaning that presidential and vice-presidential candidates did not contest elections together on a unified ticket. The person who received the most votes from the Electoral College advanced to the presidency, while the runner-up assumed the vice-presidency.
selection of electors
Between December 15, 1788, and January 10, 1789, each state selected its presidential electors. The Electoral College convened on February 4, 1789, attended by 10 states: Connecticut, Delaware, Georgia, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, and Virginia. Notably, New York had not appointed electors, and North Carolina and Rhode Island were unable to participate because they had yet to ratify the Constitution. After establishing a quorum, Congress officially counted and certified the electoral votes on April 6.
Washington’s unanimous election
George Washington emerged as the clear contender for the presidency in the US election, seen as a national hero and the favorite son of Virginia, the largest state at the time. With significant experience as commander of the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War and president of the Constitutional Convention in 1787, Washington was seen as the only viable choice to lead the country. Each of the 69 electors, selected in various ways by their states, were allowed to cast two votes in the election. Under this system, Washington was elected unanimously, making him the only president in American history to win such support.
Inauguration and legacy
After being unanimously elected, George Washington proceeded to New York City, the temporary capital of the United States, where he was inaugurated on April 30, 1789. His inauguration was full of ceremony and was marked by a solemn ceremony which set the tone for it. New government.
