President Washington did several things early in his first term to consolidate political support in the country for his new government:
1. Traveled extensively: President Washington undertook a series of national tours, visiting all 13 states and using these trips to connect with his fellow citizens, helped to build public support for the new federal government.
2. Created key executive departments: Washington established key executive departments, including the Department of State, Department of Treasury, and Department of War, which helped to create a strong and functional federal government.
3. Signed the Judiciary Act: President Washington also signed the Judiciary Act of 1789, which established the federal court system and helped to solidify the authority of the federal government.
4. Issued a proclamation of neutrality: Early in his first term, Washington issued a proclamation of neutrality in response to the ongoing conflict between Britain and France, which helped to avoid the possibility of being drawn into a costly foreign war.
These actions helped to establish the legitimacy of the new federal government and create a sense of unity and shared purpose among the American people, laying the foundation for the growth and development of the nation in the years that followed.