On the recordNovember 17, 2010
I wish to recognize a fellow Marylander, John Hanson, whose statue graces Statuary Hall here in the U.S. Capitol. George Washington is properly revered as the "Father of our Country" and the Nation's first President. But we mustn't overlook John Hanson's seminal contributions to the birth of the United States. In October 1781, the British surrendered at Yorktown, VA, and the American Revolution was over. A month later, Hanson became the first elected President of the Continental Congress established under the Articles of Confederation. He was unanimously elected and served one term, from November 5, 1781 to November 3, 1782. John Hanson's administration began the task of creating the governmental infrastructure to meet the needs of a growing, diverse nation. Under his leadership, the Nation's first central bank was created, along with the post office, the departments of State, War and Treasury, the diplomatic corps, the national seal, and the annual observance of Thanksgiving Day. As the first elected President of our independent Nation, President Hanson began the task of unifying the former colonies and providing for their common defense, communication, and economic growth.
