George Washington's Presidency

Excise Tax

Excise tax is an indirect tax on specific goods, services and activities.

Assumption of State Debts

Federal government took on state debts to establish national credit.

National Bank (1791)

Created to unify finances and issue stable currency.

Revenue Act of 1789

Established tariffs to protect manufacturers and generate income.

Whiskey Tax (1791)

Excise tax leading to the Whiskey Rebellion in 1794.

Road Construction

Facilitated trade and communication between U.S. states.

Potomac Canal

Connected eastern seaboard to western territories for commerce.

Neutrality Proclamation

Declared U.S. neutrality in European conflicts.

Jay Treaty

Resolved issues with Britain post-Revolutionary War.

Pinckney Treaty

Secured Mississippi River navigation for American traders.

Citizen Genêt Affair (1793)

French envoy undermined U.S. neutrality by rallying support.

Judiciary Act of 1789

Established the federal court system and Supreme Court.

Residence Act of 1790

Determined location of the U.S. capital, Washington D.C.

Coinage Act of 1792

Created U.S. Mint and established the dollar currency.

Treaty of Greenville

Ended conflict with Native Americans in Northwest Territory.

Public Silence on Slavery

Washington avoided public discussions on slavery issues.

Private Views on Slavery

Freed slaves in will, indicating personal discomfort.

Assimilation of Native Americans

Promoted integrating Native Americans into White society.

Federalist Policies

Supported strong central government and Hamilton's financial plans.

Opposition to Partisanship

Warned against political factions in Farewell Address.

Nationalism

Embodied unity and federal authority during his presidency.

Whiskey Rebellion (1794)

Showcased government's enforcement of federal law.

Farewell Address (1796)

Advised on foreign policy and national unity.

Bill of Rights Creation

Presided over establishment of the first ten amendments.

Peaceful Transfer of Power

Set precedent by stepping down after two terms.

Controversy Over Slavery

Owned around 200 slaves, inherited from his father.

Destruction of Indigenous Communities

Criticized for orders against Native American populations.

Washington's Legacy as President

He set many precedents for the national government and presidency in general. He was also the first president to use presidential veto, also setting a constitutional precedent.