Who was the first President of the United States?

George Washington was the first President of the United States, serving from 1789 to 1797. He is often referred to as the "Father of His Country" due to his pivotal role in the founding of the nation. Washington's leadership in the American Revolutionary War and his influence during the Constitutional Convention helped establish the presidency as a significant and respected office within the new government. His presidency set many precedents for future leaders, including the tradition of a two-term limit and the establishment of a cabinet system.

The other figures mentioned played important roles in U.S. history but did not serve as the first president. Thomas Jefferson, who was the primary author of the Declaration of Independence and later served as the third president, and John Adams, who was the second president, both contributed significantly to the formation of the nation but came after Washington. Abraham Lincoln, known for leading the country during the Civil War and working to end slavery, served as the 16th president much later in history. Ultimately, Washington's presidency marked the beginning of the executive branch of the U.S. government and is a critical point in American history.