To the editor:

Under the Articles of Confederation, the first President of the United States was (perhaps) Samuel Huntington. The first 10 presidents (one-year terms) presided over many federal government customs that were established (the “First Lady,” established Thanksgiving day, etc). Many organs of the national government (the precursor to the Federal Reserve, Treasury Department, State department, etc.) were created by them. They even got all foreign troops off our lands as a free and independent United States of America, recognized by foreign governments with (somewhat) clear borders. These first 10 men were elected by congress, not the public as is today.

When America was reorganized under the Constitution, George Washington became the first president under THAT system, used until today … 12 years AFTER independence. ‘Ole George took executive office of a nation already well established inheriting departments that still operate right now, not starting from scratch.

Some argue the first 10 were “President of the United States in Congress Assembled,” not “President of the United States.” Splitting hairs? The first 10 had little political power but still got a lot done, a lot still in use.

By the way, David Rice Atchison was never a “president for a day” … Or was he?

Just a thought …

And, bonus question: One president was never elected by congress, elected by the people or moved into a vacant president role from vice president. Who could that be? (hint: it’s not James Earl Jones in “The Man”).

Ira Weinberg

Saranac Lake