President Washington was elected President by a unanimous election of 69 voters in 1788, and served two terms. He set about creating a strong, well-funded national government that would maintain neutrality in Europe's raging wars, quell uprisings, and gain the approval of Americans of all types. His leadership style has established many forms and rituals of government that have been used, such as the use of a cabinet system and the swearing-in of oaths. Still, the peaceful transition from his presidency to the presidency of John Adams has created a tradition that continues into the 21st century. Washington was hailed as a patriarch, even during his lifetime.
