After decades of colonial rule under Parliament and the British Crown, the thirteen states ratified the Articles of Confederation during the American War for Independence, which served as America’s first constitution. Ultimately, the Articles were insufficient to provide for unity and the necessary executive power to lead the nation.
Aware of the Articles’ limitations yet cautious of centralized power, America’s Founding Fathers debated and wrote a Constitution that established executive authority. After ratification by 9 states, the US Constitution became the supreme law of the United States in 1788. Shortly after, in February 1789, the states elected George Washington as the first president.
Washington knew that his words and actions would guide future presidential interaction with Congress. Thus, he carefully crafted his First Annual Address to Congress, delivered in January of 1790, showing due respect for Congress’ constitutional authority while also rising to the occasion as chief executive to recommend legislation for the country’s welfare.
By reading Washington’s address, one can see his respect for Congress, his priorities, and his leadership. He prudently and directly addressed particular necessities under debate, such as the need for a standing army, immigration policy, trade standards, and the promotion of literature and science education.
This article provides an overview of his method. This page contains his address. Here is a picture of his hand-written address.
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