Video: 'The American Presidential Election of 1788-1789'

(Wednesday, February 4, 1789, during the 1788–89 United States presidential election) — General George Washington of Virginia was unanimously and officially elected the first President of the United States today, winning all 69 electoral votes cast.

Federalist John Adams of Massachusetts was elected VPOTUS, defeating fellow Federalist John Jay of New York 34 to 9. The remaining 26 electoral votes were split among 9 different candidates.

Congress confirmed the results when it officially counted the ballots on Apr. 6, 1789.

Washington and Adams would be sworn in for four-year terms later in April 1789.