Portrait was issued in September 1787 at the culmination of the Constitutional Convention over which Washington presided. Printed portraits of him were ubiquitous in America during and after his lifetime, but few displayed the artistry and technical skill of this elegant oval mezzotint by Charles Willson Peale. George Washington assumed command of the continental army on July 3, 1775, and led it throughout the war. George Washington (1731 or 1732-1799) was the first President of the United States of America, serving from 1789 to 1797, and dominant military and political leader of the United States from 1775 to 1799. He led the American victory over Great Britain in the American Revolutionary War as commander-in-chief of the Continental Army from 1775 to 1783, and presided over the writing of the Constitution in 1787. Washington became the first president by unanimous choice, and oversaw the creation of a strong, well-financed national government that maintained neutrality in the wars raging in Europe, suppressed rebellion and won acceptance among Americans of all types. His leadership style established many forms and rituals of government that have been used since, such as using a cabinet system and delivering an inaugural address. Washington is universally regarded as the "Father of his country".