President Washington
As the first president, George Washington did a lot of things. He navigated issues surrounding foreign affairs, the institution of slavery, indigenous nations, and divisions between states. Scroll to learn more about Washington's presidency.
The Cabinet
One of the first things George Washington did as president was establish a cabinet, which was a council of advisors that helped him make decisions.
Washington's Cabinet Memebers
The Neutrality Crisis
While Great Britain and France were at war in 1793, the U.S. promised not to get involved. However, things got messy when the French ambassador in America began to convince American citizens to fight for France.
Choosing Sides
George Washington and Slavery
After the Revolution, George Washington privately showed opposition to the institution of slavery. In public, however, he took a more neutral position.
The Institution of Slavery
George Washington and Native Americans
As President, George Washington interacted with a lot of indigenous peoples. He distributed peace medals, negotiated treaties, and tried to regulate colonial settlers approaching native lands.
Diplomacy with Native AmericansBe Washington
Do you think you would make the same decisions as President Washington? Find out in Be Washington, the interactive game where you get to lead like George Washington.
Anti-Slavery Token
Tokens like these were passed around by Quakers in both Britain and America. They tried to persuade people that slavery was evil and should be abolished.
Neutrality Proclamation
George Washington issued a statement of neutrality when Britain, France, and other countries in Europe broke out into war.
Whiskey Rebellion Proclamation
A rebellion broke out in Pennslyvania over taxes. President Washington issued this statement, demanding the rebels step down.
The Whiskey Rebellion Timeline
Explore this interactive timeline to learn more about the Whiskey Rebellion and how George Washington handled the conflict.
Available Resources
Interested in learning more about the presidency? Explore these sources!
- A More Perfect Union Video
- The United States Constitution
- The Bill of Rights
- The Foundations of Democracy
- Religious Freedom Resources
- Washington's Coat
- Presidential Food Supply Ledger
- Butter Dish
- The First First Lady
- The First Cabinet
- Cabinet Members
- The First President
- Ten Facts about Washington's Presidency
- Presiding in a Crisis
- The First Supreme Court
- George Washington and Slavery
- George Washington and Native Americans
- Anti-Slavery Token
- Neutrality Proclamation
- Neutrality Proclamation (Primary Source)
- Be Washington: The Genet Affair
- Be Washington: The Whiskey Rebellion
National Unity
This short video explains how Washington warned against political division and why national unity is important today.
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The Founding of the U.S. Government