What would it be like to start a job that nobody had ever done before? On April 30, 1789, George Washington stood on the balcony of Federal Hall in New York City. He took the oath of office. He placed his hand on a Bible and promised to "preserve, protect. Defend the Constitution." With those words, he became the first president of the United States. Washington was not a reluctant leader, but he understood the weight of the job. Every decision he made would set a precedent for future presidents. There was no guidebook for how a president should act. Washington chose to be addressed simply as "Mr. President" instead of grander titles. He created the Cabinet, a group of advisors. He chose Thomas Jefferson as Secretary of State and Alexander Hamilton as Secretary of the Treasury. Washington served two terms and then voluntarily stepped down in 1797. This decision was remarkable because most leaders at the time held power for life. By choosing to leave office, Washington established the tradition of peaceful transfer of power. King George III of England was impressed. He reportedly called Washington "the greatest man in the world."