When discussing the presidents of the United States, the name George Washington invariably comes to mind as the first. However, many are unaware that the presidency existed even before the U.S. Constitution, under the Articles of Confederation. While George Washington holds the distinguished title of the first president under the Constitution, John Hanson holds a significant, albeit often overlooked, place in American history as the first President of the United States in Congress Assembled, serving under the Articles of Confederation starting in November 1781.
It’s important to clarify that the role John Hanson filled was distinct from the presidential office we know today. Under the Articles of Confederation, the United States government lacked a separate executive branch. The President of Congress was primarily a ceremonial role within the Confederation Congress. While John Hanson was responsible for managing official correspondence and signing documents, the position’s responsibilities were not comparable to the extensive powers and duties held by presidents elected under the Constitution. Despite the limitations of the office, understanding John Hanson‘s role provides critical insight into the formative years of the United States.
Interestingly, John Hanson himself reportedly found the presidential duties under the Articles tedious and even wished to resign. However, the Articles of Confederation did not outline a clear process for presidential succession. Recognizing the potential disruption his departure would cause and driven by a strong sense of duty and patriotism, John Hanson remained in office, dedicating himself to the nascent nation’s needs.
During his tenure from November 5, 1781, to November 3, 1782, John Hanson achieved several notable accomplishments. He oversaw the removal of all foreign troops from American soil and the withdrawal of their flags, symbolizing the newly won independence. Furthermore, John Hanson was instrumental in establishing key governmental structures, including the Treasury Department, the first Secretary of War, and the Department of Foreign Affairs, laying the groundwork for the future executive departments under the Constitution. His leadership also extended to securing the statehood of the Western Territories beyond the Appalachian Mountains, areas that were previously under the control of some of the original thirteen colonies, shaping the geographical expansion of the young nation.
Perhaps one of the most relatable and enduring legacies attributed to John Hanson is the establishment of Thanksgiving Day as the fourth Thursday in November. This tradition, deeply ingrained in American culture, is another testament to his influence during his presidency. Bearing the mantle of the first President of Congress was undoubtedly a challenging endeavor. The fact that John Hanson managed to achieve so much within a single year term, compared to the four-year term of modern presidents, underscores his dedication and effectiveness.
John Hanson‘s contribution to the development of United States Constitutional History is undeniable, even if often understated. He is frequently referred to as the “forgotten first President,” a title that reflects his relative obscurity in mainstream historical narratives. However, as highlighted in Seymour Weyss Smith’s biography, “John Hanson, Our First President,” Hanson’s political leadership during the American Revolution was considered as crucial as George Washington’s military command. Reflecting their respective importance, statues of both John Hanson and George Washington stand in the United States Capitol in Washington D.C., acknowledging their pivotal roles in the nation’s founding.
John Hanson passed away on November 15, 1783, at the age of 62. Jacob A. Nelson, in his 1939 publication “John Hanson and the Inseparable Union,” eloquently summarized John Hanson‘s legacy: “Thus was ended the career of one of America’s greatest statesmen… his great handiwork, the nation which he helped to establish, remains as a fitting tribute to his memory. It is doubtful if there has ever lived on this side of the Atlantic, a nobler character or shrewder statesman… a man with a keener grasp of, or a deeper insight into, such democratic ideals as are essential to the promotion of personal liberty and the extension of human happiness… He was firm in his opinion that the people of America were capable of ruling themselves without the aid of a king.” The story of John Hanson Usa is a vital reminder of the rich and complex history behind the foundation of the United States, revealing the contributions of individuals who, though less widely known, played crucial roles in shaping the nation.
