The Presidency of George Washington

George Washington's presidency was a defining moment in American history. He did not want the job, nearly died just before taking office, and faced the arduous task of crafting the executive branch from scratch, albeit with Congressional help and a lot of Alexander Hamilton. Hamilton stained his administration.

Washington's foreign policy set the stage for the early 19th century, and in many ways was defined by lingering problems from the American War for Independence. Domestic issues reflected foreign policy, even Hamilton's fiscal agenda, and his administration witnessed the growth of the "First Party System." Party is a loaded term as neither "party" reflected modern party politics, but we are still living with the effects of the Constitutional debates of Washington's time in office.

This class takes a deep dive into Washington's eight years in office. You'll have a better understanding of American politics and American history when you complete the course.