Who served as the first US President?

George Washington served as the first President of the United States, a role he held from April 30, 1789, to March 4, 1797. His election is significant not only because he was the first to hold the office but also due to his leadership during the American Revolutionary War, which earned him the respect and trust of the nation. Washington set many precedents for the presidency, including the tradition of a two-term limit, and he emphasized the importance of unity and governance of the people. His leadership style and the principles he established have had a lasting impact on the role of the presidency and the functioning of American democracy.

The other individuals listed played important roles in early American history and government: Thomas Jefferson, the principal author of the Declaration of Independence, served as the third president; John Adams was a key figure in advocating for independence and served as the second president; and James Madison, known as the "Father of the Constitution," served as the fourth president. However, none of these figures held the office of the presidency before George Washington.