How many presidents were there before George Washington? This is a question that often comes up when discussing the early history of the United States. The answer may surprise many, as the nation’s first president was not the first to hold the title of “President of the United States.”
Before George Washington took office in 1789, the United States was governed by a different system. The country was established as a republic, with a government based on the principles of democracy and the rule of law. However, the position of “President” did not exist at the time of the nation’s founding.
Instead, the United States was initially governed by a group of individuals known as the Continental Congress. This body was composed of delegates from the 13 original colonies and was responsible for making decisions on matters of national importance. The Continental Congress operated from 1774 to 1789, during which time it served as the central governing authority of the United States.
After the Declaration of Independence in 1776, the Articles of Confederation were adopted in 1781, which established a loose confederation of states with a weak central government. Under the Articles, the national government was led by a Congress, which was divided into two houses: the House of Representatives and the Senate. However, the Articles did not provide for a president or executive branch.
It was not until the drafting of the United States Constitution in 1787 that the position of President was established. The Constitution created a stronger central government and outlined the powers and responsibilities of the executive branch, including the President. George Washington was the first person to be elected to the office of President, serving from 1789 to 1797.
In summary, there were no presidents before George Washington. The United States was governed by the Continental Congress and the Continental Congress under the Articles of Confederation before the creation of the presidency. George Washington’s election as the first President marked the beginning of a new era in American governance.
