4 February 1789

George Washington is unanimously elected as the first President of the United States by the U.S. Electoral College.

George Washington (1732-1799) was an American military leader, statesman, and the first President of the United States (1789-1797). He is often referred to as the “Father of His Country” due to his instrumental role in leading the American colonies to victory in the Revolutionary War and his contributions to the drafting of the United States Constitution.

Early Life: Washington was born on February 22, 1732, in Westmoreland County, Virginia. He came from a wealthy Virginia plantation family and received only a basic formal education. His early experiences included surveying land in Virginia.

Military Career: Washington gained military experience during the French and Indian War (1754-1763) where he served as a colonel in the Virginia militia. His leadership and strategic skills began to emerge during this conflict.

Commander-in-Chief of the Continental Army: When the American Revolution broke out in 1775, the Continental Congress appointed Washington as the Commander-in-Chief of the Continental Army. He faced numerous challenges during the war but managed to lead the American forces to victory over the British, ultimately securing independence for the United States.

Presidency: After the Revolutionary War, Washington presided over the Constitutional Convention in 1787 and played a crucial role in drafting the United States Constitution. In 1789, he was unanimously elected as the first President of the United States and served two terms, declining a third term. Washington is often remembered for establishing many of the norms and precedents for the presidency.

Farewell Address: In 1796, after serving two terms as President, Washington delivered his Farewell Address, where he emphasized the importance of national unity, warned against the dangers of political factions, and advocated for a non-interventionist foreign policy.

Death: George Washington died on December 14, 1799, at Mount Vernon, his plantation in Virginia. His death had a profound impact on the nation, and he is widely regarded as one of the greatest leaders in American history.

12 July 1789

In response to the dismissal of the French finance minister Jacques Necker, the radical journalist Camille Desmoulins gives a speech which results in the storming of the Bastille two days later.