As head of the U.S. government and commander in chief of the military, the president of the United States fills the most important executive office. This office has evolved over the years and will continue to do so.

History

After declaring independence from the British monarchy, early Americans struggled to create a strong, centralized government without becoming another monarchy.

Identification

Following the Continental Congress, which left too much power to each state, came the Constitutional Convention--which established the revised Articles of Confederation and the office of U.S. President arose.

Considerations

In 1788, Article II of the U.S. Constitution created the office of the U.S. President and executive branch of the United States government. Controls were built into the powers of the President to avoid the creation of a monarchy.

Features

President Franklin Roosevelt created the Executive Office of the President in 1939 as a decision-making support system for the President and as a means to remain well informed regarding national and international affairs.

Time Frame

United States presidents can be elected to two 4-year terms. Franklin D. Roosevelt held the office of President for four consecutive terms, but in 1951, an amendment limited terms to two.

Fun Fact

Grover Cleveland, both the 22nd and 24th President, held the office of president twice, in nonconsecutive years. Because of this, though someone might be the 100th President of the United States, he would only be the 99th person to have held the office.