What Happened in 1789

Major Events

  • Jan 21 The 1st American novel, William Hill Brown's "The Power of Sympathy" is published by Isaiah Thomas
  • Feb 4 1st US electoral college chooses George Washington as President and John Adams as Vice President
  • Apr 4 1st US Congress begins regular sessions during George Washington's presidency at Federal Hall, NYC (ending 1791)


Famous Weddings in 1789