Final answer:
The correct answer to the challenges faced by George Washington during his presidency is putting the nation's finances in order. This task was central to ensuring the new nation's growth and stability.
Step-by-step explanation:
The challenges faced by George Washington during his presidency did include putting the nation's finances in order. Washington and his administration, particularly through the efforts of Alexander Hamilton, introduced economic policies to promote growth and financial stability. Additionally, another major focus of his presidency was dealing with foreign policy challenges, which involved the settlement of borderlands and the navigation of the Mississippi River, as well as creating respect for the new nation abroad. However, the option that best fits the early issues Washington faced is indeed putting the nation's finances in order, as it was foundational to the country's growth and future stability. While dealing with political divisions was certainly a concern, it was not as pressing as establishing a secure financial system for the new nation.