Steps to the Presidency
The Constitution was officially ratified and George Washington was elected the new President of the United States. However, there were many steps George Washington had to take before officially accepting the position of President. Scroll to learn more about Washington's election, inauguration, and presidential tours.
Washington's Election
George Washington was elected as the first president of the United States. As the first president, he had to set many precedents for the position.
Electing the First President
The Inauguration
George Washington was inaugurated on April 30, 1789, in New York City. This timeline examines how the inauguration day went.
Inaugurating Washington
Receptions at the Washington's
Receptions, or "Levees," were commonly hosted by George and Martha Washington at the President's house in Philadelphia.
What's a Levee?National Tours
George Washington went on trips around the new United States to meet and interact with citizens. This map shows where Washington traveled.
The First Inaugural Address
After being inaugurated, George Washington spoke to the nation, creating the tradition of the First Inaugural Address.
Presidential China
This piece of china was part of a 309-piece set that George Washington used while president. The white color told his guests that he was classy, while the gold trim added a bit of fanciness to the dish.
The First Annual Address
In January 1790, George Washington spoke to Congress as presdient, establishing the tradition of the State of the Union address.
Washington's Coat
This blue coat of Washington's was most likely worn while he was President. It was American-made and demonstrated Washington's support of items made in the U.S.
Available Resources
Interested in learning more about Washington's election? Explore these sources!
- Washington's Constitution
- Building the Constitution
- The Acts of Congress (Article)
- A More Perfect Union Video
- The United States Constitution
- The Bill of Rights
- The Acts of Congress
- The Foundations of Democracy
- Religious Freedom Resources
- The Key to the Bastille
- Washington's Inauguration Timeline
- 10 Facts about Washington's Election
- First Annual Address to Congress
- Washington's Tour of New England
- Washington's First Inaugural Address
- Washington's Coat
- Presidential Food Supply Ledger
- Butter Dish
- The First First Lady
Civic Virtue
This short video explains why it was important for George Washington to act according to his civic virtue, and why civic virtue matters today.
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The Founding of the U.S. Government