Tribune-Review
Nate Smallwood | Tribune-Review
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On April 30, 1789, George Washington was sworn into office as the first president of the United States. His birthday of Feb. 22 became a federal holiday that gave way to the modern Presidents Day.
He had many things in common with the other 44 men whose roles we observe today.
Like him, seven others were born in Virginia. There were 11 other slave owners. Eleven either farmed or grew up on farms. Twenty-five were in the military, and 11 were generals. He contracted smallpox like Abraham Lincoln. Twelve served two full terms. He was married 40 years, until his death widowed his wife, like Franklin Roosevelt and Zachary Taylor.