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When we think of the first president of the United States, we often think of George Washington. However, many people are not aware that John Hanson was actually the first president of the United States of America. Hanson served as the President of the Continental Congress from 1781 to 1782, and during this time, he played a critical role in shaping the country's early history.
Early Life and Career
John Hanson was born on April 3, 1715, in Charles County, Maryland. He was the son of Samuel Hanson, a planter, and Elizabeth Story Hanson. Hanson received his early education at a local school before attending the Philadelphia Academy, where he studied law. After completing his studies, Hanson returned to Maryland and began practicing law.
In 1757, Hanson was elected to the Maryland House of Delegates, where he served for several years. He was also appointed to various other government positions, including the position of sheriff and the position of judge.
Role in the Revolution
During the American Revolution, John Hanson played a significant role in the fight for independence. In 1779, he was elected to the Continental Congress, where he served for several years. During his time in Congress, Hanson was a strong advocate for independence and pushed for the adoption of the Articles of Confederation.
After the adoption of the Articles of Confederation, Hanson was elected as the President of the Continental Congress. He served in this position from 1781 to 1782 and was responsible for presiding over Congress and signing official documents.
Contributions as President
As the President of the Continental Congress, John Hanson made several significant contributions to the early history of the United States. One of his most significant contributions was his role in negotiating the Treaty of Paris, which ended the American Revolution and recognized the independence of the United States.
Hanson was also responsible for establishing the Great Seal of the United States, which features an eagle holding an olive branch and arrows. He played a critical role in creating this symbol of American unity and independence.
Legacy
Despite his significant contributions to the early history of the United States, John Hanson is often overlooked by many Americans. However, Hanson's legacy lives on through his contributions to the early government of the United States and his role in securing the country's independence.
Today, Hanson is remembered as a founding father of the United States and a critical figure in American history. His contributions to the country continue to be celebrated and studied by historians and scholars alike.
Conclusion
John Hanson may not be as well-known as some other founding fathers of the United States, but his contributions to the early history of the country cannot be understated. As the first president of the United States of America, Hanson played a critical role in shaping the country's early government and securing its independence.