George Washington (1732–1799) was the first President of the United States and a central figure in the nation’s founding. Born in colonial Virginia to a plantation family, he began his public career as a land surveyor and later gained military experience during the French and Indian War. With the outbreak of the American Revolution, he was appointed Commander-in-Chief of the Continental Army and led the colonies to victory over Britain, enduring setbacks like the winter at Valley Forge and ultimately triumphing at Yorktown in 1781.

Following the war, Washington presided over the Constitutional Convention of 1787, where the framework of the U.S. government was established. His reputation for leadership and integrity made him the unanimous choice for the presidency in 1789, and he was re-elected in 1792. As president, he helped define the role, establishing key precedents such as forming a Cabinet, maintaining neutrality in foreign affairs, and stepping down after two terms. He rejected titles of nobility and emphasized civic virtue and national unity, especially in his Farewell Address.

Though a wealthy landowner who enslaved people, Washington made provisions in his will for their freedom -a rare step among his contemporaries. He declined a third term and retired to his Mount Vernon estate, leaving behind a lasting legacy of public service and republican ideals that helped shape the character of the United States. 

John Adams (1735–1826), the second President of the United States, was a key figure in the nation’s founding and one of its most intellectually driven leaders. Born in B raintree,Massachusetts, Adams was a Harvard-educated lawyer known for his strong principles and persuasive arguments. He gained national attention by defending British soldiers after the Boston Massacre -a decision rooted in his deep belief in justice and the rule of law, even when unpopular. A fervent advocate for independence, he played a central role in the Continental Congress and was part of the committee that drafted the Declaration of Independence in 1776.

Adams served as the first U.S. ambassador to Britain and later became the nation’s first Vice President under George Washington, a largely ceremonial role he found frustrating. In 1797, he succeeded Washington as President, leading during a turbulent period marked by foreign tensions, especially with France, and growing political divisions at home. His presidency is remembered for keeping the country out of full-scale war during the Quasi-War and for the controversial Alien and Sedition Acts. Though criticized, his leadership maintained national stability. After losing the 1800 election to Thomas Jefferson, Adams retired to his Massachusetts farm, where he spent his final years. He died on July 4, 1826, the 50th anniversary of American independence, on the same day as Jefferson.