John Hanson might not be a household name like Washington or Lincoln, but he played a pivotal role in the early days of American history. So, what's the big deal about John Hanson? Well, he was the very first President of the United States in Congress Assembled under the Articles of Confederation. That means, even before George Washington took the oath of office, there was someone else steering the ship of state. And that someone was John Hanson.

Now, you might be wondering, why don't we hear more about him? After all, he was the first president. The short answer? History tends to favor the more well-known figures. But the longer answer is a bit more nuanced — and a lot more interesting. John Hanson’s story is one of quiet leadership, revolutionary spirit, and the kind of behind-the-scenes work that helped shape a new nation.

So, if you've ever heard whispers about a "forgotten president" or stumbled across a curious claim about a Black Founding Father named John Hanson, you're not alone. In fact, there’s a lot of confusion, misinformation, and even conspiracy theories swirling around his legacy. That’s exactly why it's time to take a closer, clearer look at who John Hanson really was — and why he still matters today.

• Yanet Garcia

Table of Contents

• Biography of John Hanson
• Personal Details & Bio Data
• John Hanson’s Role in the American Revolution
• John Hanson’s Presidency Under the Articles of Confederation
• Myths and Misconceptions About John Hanson
• John Hanson’s Legacy Today
• Frequently Asked Questions

Biography of John Hanson

John Hanson was born on April 14, 1721, in Charles County, Maryland. He lived during a time of great change in American history — the lead-up to the Revolutionary War and the birth of the United States. Though not a soldier, his contributions to the cause were no less important. He was a leader, a statesman, and a key figure in the early government of the United States.

As a young man, he worked in business and law, eventually becoming a prominent figure in Maryland. He served as a sheriff, a position that gave him a taste of leadership and responsibility. Later, he would become involved in politics, representing Maryland in the Continental Congress and eventually becoming the first President under the Articles of Confederation.

Though his time in office was short — just one year, from 1781 to 1782 — he made decisions that helped keep the fledgling country united during a very fragile time. His presidency came right after the end of the Revolutionary War, when the United States was still figuring out what kind of government it would become.

• Bianca Rodrigues

Personal Details & Bio Data of John Hanson

John Hanson’s Role in the American Revolution

Before he ever became president, John Hanson was deeply involved in the American Revolution. He was part of the Maryland Provincial Legislature, where he worked to support the Patriot cause. He helped organize soldiers and supplies, making sure that Maryland played its part in the war effort.

He wasn’t just sitting behind a desk, either. He was out in the field, rallying people to the cause, raising funds, and pushing for independence. His leadership in Maryland was a big deal because the state had strong loyalist ties, and getting people to support the Revolution wasn’t always easy. Yet, he managed to do just that — and more.

Eventually, his efforts earned him a spot in the Continental Congress, where he signed the Articles of Confederation — the very document that laid the foundation for the first American government. His work there helped create the framework that would eventually lead to the U.S. Constitution.

John Hanson’s Presidency Under the Articles of Confederation

When the Revolutionary War ended in 1781, the United States was still figuring out how to run itself. The Articles of Confederation were in place, and they called for a central government with a president chosen by Congress. That’s how John Hanson ended up in the role. On November 5, 1781, he was elected as the first full-term President of the United States in Congress Assembled.

Now, this wasn’t the same kind of presidency we know today. There was no executive branch, no national army, and very little centralized power. But even so, John Hanson made important decisions during his time in office. He helped organize the end of the war, worked on treaties, and tried to unify the states under a common cause.

He also helped establish the Great Seal of the United States, which we still use today. Though his term was only one year long — the rules at the time said no one could serve more than one year in a three-year period — his work laid the groundwork for the future of the nation.

Myths and Misconceptions About John Hanson

Over the years, a number of myths have emerged around John Hanson. One of the most persistent is the idea that he was Black, and that he was the first African American president of the United States. This claim has been widely circulated on certain websites and forums, but it’s not supported by credible historical evidence.

Some of these stories point to old photos or paintings that supposedly show a Black man in 18th-century clothing. However, most historians agree that these images are either misinterpreted or have been altered. The real John Hanson was a white man of European descent, and there’s no solid documentation that supports the idea that he was Black.

Still, the fact that this myth exists speaks to how little most people know about him. It also shows how eager people are to find stories of diversity and inclusion in early American history — something that’s important to remember as we continue to learn and grow as a society.

John Hanson’s Legacy Today

Today, John Hanson is often overlooked in history books. His presidency came before the Constitution was written, and since it wasn’t under the system we now follow, it doesn’t get the same recognition as Washington or Jefferson. But that doesn’t mean he doesn’t deserve it.

In Maryland, you can visit Oxon Hill Manor and Mulberry Grove, two places connected to his life and legacy. There are also statues and memorials dedicated to him, though they’re not as prominent as those of other Founding Fathers. If you’re interested in learning more, these sites offer a glimpse into the life of a man who helped shape the early United States.

So, the next time you hear someone mention the “first president,” maybe you can share what you’ve learned. John Hanson may not be as famous as some of the other names in history, but his story is just as important — and definitely worth remembering.

Frequently Asked Questions

Was John Hanson the first president of the United States?

Yes, John Hanson was the first full-term President of the United States in Congress Assembled under the Articles of Confederation. He served from 1781 to 1782, making him the first person to hold that office, though not under the current Constitution.

Did John Hanson sign the Declaration of Independence?

No, John Hanson did not sign the Declaration of Independence. However, he did sign the Articles of Confederation, which was the first governing document of the United States.

Was John Hanson Black?

No, historical records and portraits show that John Hanson was a white man of European descent. Some modern myths claim he was Black, but these claims are not supported by credible evidence.

Learn more about early American leaders on our site, and link to this page John Hanson: The First President of the United States.