Read the firsthand account of Washington's Inauguration: April 30, 1789

Dear Diary,

Today, as many will tell you, is a joyous day. I, on the other hand, feel more prepared facing the thundering cannons on the battlefield. Many honor me as a leader of men, as one who is unafraid to accept the burden of my nation's hopes. It is this belief that has led Congress to elect me as the first president of our country. I only wish that I were as confident in my ability to lead this newfound country as the cheering masses are.

Even now, the men I have led on the battlefield—through smoke, fire, and the endless glow of false dawn—cheer my name. Many have traveled to New York to show support during my inauguration. They gather outside Federal Hall and await the moment I will speak. They wait for my promise to lead them once more into the unknown.

It falls to me to gather our political soldiers as we forge our nation into the strong, unified power I know it to be. Where once I used my mind and words to spur my battle-weary brothers, the British troops, to climb the next hill, now I must use these to overcome opposing political views within our own circle.

In my heart, I feel more certain of my ability to face enemy muskets than confidence in my ability to lead this country as it surveys and plots its path through the forests and valleys of this new political wilderness.

George

Read the excerpt from America's First President: George Washington:

The Road to the Presidency

(7) Years after the war, Washington knew that the structure of government was not working. States were fighting over boundaries and refusing to help pay off the debt that the nation had developed during the war. Washington knew that something had to be done. In 1786, after a major clash erupted in Massachusetts, Congress decided that a convention be held in Philadelphia. In 1787, Washington was asked to attend the Constitutional Convention. Congress wanted him to give input on drafting the new constitution. It was during this convention that the constitutional amendments were developed. It also inspired discussion about who the leader of the nation should be.

(8) Washington's impressive leadership led the delegates to believe that he was by far the most qualified for the position. On January 7, 1789, he unanimously won the leadership election. George Washington had become the first president of the United States.

The First President

(9) During his presidency, Washington worked to make sure that he was fair and sensible. He focused on improving the country's finances and establishing peace treaties with the Native American tribes. Washington served two terms as president. In 1797, he declined to serve a third and retired to his plantation. Two years later, on December 14, 1799, Washington fell ill and died. The country mourned the death of its first president. He was considered a revolutionary hero and a man of great honor and patriotism.

Which of the following is information the reader learns through both the firsthand and secondhand account?
Washington was chosen as president during the Constitutional Convention.
Washington was known as a good leader.
Washington was more comfortable on the battlefield than as president.
Washington was president for two terms.