George Washington Elected the First President
Leader: How George Washington became the first President of the United States
The new system of government in the United States Constitution required a president. A man to lead the now stronger United States of America. A man to ensure that the United States functioned as a single community.
Once the Constitution was ratified, which means approved, many called upon George Washington to run for the presidency of the United States of America. However, just like his participation in the Constitution Convention, Washington didn’t want to be president.
He wanted to return to his quiet life at Mount Vernon with his family. Yet, try as he may, Washington could not escape his popularity.
Once again, his humility had only made him more worthy of the very job for which he thought himself to be unworthy – to be the first leader of the newly independent America.
The newly formed system of government for the United States required a President to lead them. There was only one person that was perfectly suited for this job.
Running for Presidency
After much persuasion, he agreed to run for the presidency. Washington won the majority of votes in every single state.
Getting a Vice President
But he was not the only candidate. John Adams ran against Washington to make sure the election appeared democratic. John Adams won the second-highest number of votes; he was elected to serve as Vice President. 
April 1798`
Washington once again left Mount Vernon and began the journey to New York City, the capital of the new nation.
Now the people had an opportunity to show the devotion and respect they felt for this great patriot. At every town and roadside, the people came to show their love for Washington, whom they rightfully called the “Father of the Country.” When he arrived in New York, the harbor was white with the sails of many nations. Crowds thronged the streets, cannons boomed, and flags were thrown into the breeze to welcome him.
April 30, 1789
Standing on the balcony of Federal Hall on Wall Street, Washington took the oath of office.
He pledged himself to govern the people according to the Constitution they had just written. He bent and kissed the Bible and became the first President of the United States.
Let’s Reflect
Have you ever not wanted to do something that your family and friends wanted you to do? If so, were they able to persuade you? If so, were you eventually pleased that you did it?
