George Washington was the first to exercise powers of the presidency under the Constitution, and he, like many presidents since, endeavored to expand the limits of his office. Neither John Hanson nor any of the eleven other men who presided over Congress during interim management (from July 2, 1776, to March 1, 1781) or under the Articles of Confederation were entitled to “run the country,” as we say of presidents who have held office since 1789. They warrant neither blame nor credit for all that might have happened during their terms in office. Historically speaking, they were role players only, not stars. We can grant John Hanson his due, but no more.
So therefore George Washington was the first president hope this help you