1789-1800, pt. 1

Introduction to the Time Period (1789 - 1800)

• This lecture focuses on the historical timeframe following the establishment of the United States as a separate country and the ratification of the Constitution.

• George Washington is the key figure during this short period of time.

George Washington: The Perfect Candidate for Presidency

• In 1788, an election was necessary to appoint the country’s first president or chief executive.

• Washington was the most obvious candidate due to several factors:
    - Great reputation as the general who secured victory against the British.
    - Participation at the Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia.
    - Hailing from Virginia, the largest state by population at the time.

• Washington’s sense of duty: In his mid-fifties, he could have chosen to retire, but felt called to serve. He expressed this sentiment with a phrase often attributed to him: "the voice of my country calls me," underscoring his willingness to respond to the will of the people.

The 1788 Election: A Unique Process

• The election of 1788 entering 1789 was markedly different from modern elections:
    - No popular vote: Ordinary citizens did not cast votes.
    - Electoral process: Presidents were chosen by state-chosen electors, a select group of prominent individuals.
    - Elector selection: In December 1788 and January 1789, electors were chosen in their respective states by state governments.
    - Voting by electors: In February 1789, electors cast their votes privately:
      - Each elector received a blank ballot and listed two names they considered suitable for presidency.
      - The candidate who received the most votes became president; the second-place candidate assumed the role of vice president.

Election Results of 1789

• Electoral votes:
    - A total of 67 electors.
    - Washington received 67 votes, indicating unanimous support from all electors.
    - John Adams, from Massachusetts, came in second with 34 votes.

• Clarification of common misconceptions:
    - The term “unanimously elected” means every elector supported Washington—not millions of voters as understood today.

Inauguration of George Washington

• Washington was informed of his election results at his estate, Mount Vernon, Virginia.
    - He traveled to New York City for his inauguration, making a celebrated journey:
      - Citizens lined the route, cheering, throwing flowers, and congratulating him on his victory.

• Date of Inauguration: April 30, 1789.

• During the inauguration, Washington took an oath on a preserved Bible, known as the George Washington Memorial Bible:
    - His oath was to "protect and defend the Constitution of The United States."

Washington's Re-Election in 1792

• Washington was re-elected as president in 1792:
    - By this time, the nation had expanded to 16 states, resulting in 132 electors.
    - Washington received 132 votes, again indicating unanimous support.
    - John Adams consistently served as vice president, receiving 77 votes in this election.

• Notable point: Washington operated without an official political party, and his unanimous election underscores his popularity and support across the emerging nation.

Conclusion and Future Discussions

• The lecture concludes with a note that further discussions on the period between 1789 to 1800 will take place in future sessions.

• Thanks were expressed to the audience for their participation.