1789. On April 30, 1789, George Washington was inaugurated the first President of the United States. The ceremony took place at Federal Hall in New York City.

1797. After completing two terms as president, Washington refused to be considered for a third term and returned home to Mount Vernon.

1799. On December 14, 1799, George Washington died at Mount Vernon at the age of 67.

In New York City on April 30, 1789, George Washington took the oath of office as President of the United States. An excited crowd gave three rousing cheers.

Those early years were very important to our new country. President Washington felt he had to make careful decisions so the new government would succeed. He worked very hard. He created departments within the government, each with a different job. He made sure that federal laws were obeyed everywhere. He had the government issue money that was good in all the states. President Washington also helped plan a new capital for the nation that was named Washington in his honor. Many of his decisions became precedents that later presidents would follow.

Washington agreed to serve a second term as president, even though he wanted to go home to Mount Vernon. Some people wanted him to be president even longer, but he would not. After eight years he left the office to the newly elected president, John Adams.

Once again called General Washington, as he liked, he returned home. At last he was able to take care of his beloved Mount Vernon plantation. Once more family and friends visited for dinners, conversation and dancing.

Mount Vernon was General Washington's home for over 45 years. He loved Mount Vernon. Over the years, he carefully planned the buildings and landscape of his home.

General Washington enjoyed quiet evenings on the piazza overlooking the Potomac River. One of Martha's grandchildren, Nelly, often played music for him and his guests. This peaceful life lasted less than three years.

After riding through a bad winter storm, General Washington caught a cold. His throat became infected making it difficult to breathe. On December 14, 1799, at the age of 67, George Washington died from this infection called quinsy. As he wished, he was buried at Mount Vernon.

People everywhere mourned. Henry Lee, who had been with Washington in the Revolutionary War, wrote that Washington was ...first in war, first in peace and first in the hearts of his countrymen. General Lee read this eulogy in Congress. Everyone shared his feelings.

Discussion Topics:

1.

• Why do you think the first years of the new government, when Washington was president, were so important?
• What would have happened to the country if the government Washington set up had failed?
• Would that have made a difference to us today?
• Do you think he was a successful president?

2.

• Why were people sad when Washington died?
• How can someone be first in war and first in peace at the same time?
• What do these words mean?
• If you were to write a eulogy for yourself, what would it be?

Also See:

The Reluctant President, for a discussion of Washington's feelings about being elected president.