Under which framework did George Washington serve as president?

George Washington served as president under the framework of the Constitution. The Constitution was ratified in 1788 and established the federal government of the United States, creating the presidency as we know it today. Washington became the first president in April 1789, setting many precedents for the office, including the establishment of a cabinet and the tradition of serving only two terms. This era was significant for solidifying the new governing structure and ensuring that it functioned effectively, marking the transition from the previously established Articles of Confederation, which had created a weaker central government. Understanding this context highlights the role the Constitution played in shaping the presidency and the federal system, distinguishing Washington's presidency from earlier frameworks like the Articles of Confederation, which lacked a strong executive branch.