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 was unanimously elected by the Electoral College, which reflected the widespread support he garnered due to his leadership during the American Revolutionary War and his role as a founding father. His presidency set many precedents for the role, including the establishment of a cabinet and the practice of serving only two terms. Washington's tenure laid the foundation for the future of the presidency and helped to stabilize the new nation amidst various challenges, such as creating a functional federal government and establishing relationships with foreign powers.

The other individuals listed in the choices were indeed significant figures in American history—Thomas Jefferson was the principal author of the Declaration of Independence and the third president, Abraham Lincoln led the nation through the Civil War and was the 16th president, and John Adams, a key figure in the American Revolution, became the second president. However, none held the office before Washington.