The American Presidential Election of 1788-1789

The video discusses the first U.S. presidential election, which took place from December 1788 to January 1789. George Washington ran unopposed and became the first president, receiving 100% of the electoral votes. The main issue was selecting the Vice President, with John Adams securing the position. The election process involved electors voting for two candidates, with the top two becoming President and Vice President. The Federalists dominated this election, and Alexander Hamilton influenced electors to prevent a tie between Washington and Adams.

What was the main issue to be decided in the first presidential election?

• Who would be the President

• Who would be the Vice President

• The location of the capital

• Whether to have an election

Which of the following was NOT a candidate in the 1788 presidential election?

• John Adams

• George Clinton

• Alexander Hamilton

• John Jay

What was Alexander Hamilton's concern regarding John Adams in the election?

• Adams would not get any votes

• Adams would tie with Washington

• Adams would lose to George Clinton

• Adams would become Vice President

How many electoral votes did George Washington receive in the first presidential election?

• 34

• 69

• 9

• 100

Which group dominated the first presidential election?

• Anti-Federalists

• Republicans

• Federalists

• Democrats