Who was the Secretary of State under George Washington?

Thomas Jefferson served as the Secretary of State under George Washington. This position was crucial in the early years of the United States as Jefferson was responsible for managing international relations and diplomatic affairs. His vision of America was heavily influenced by his belief in agrarian democracy and his commitment to individual liberty, which helped shape the foreign policy of the nascent republic.

During his tenure, Jefferson worked to navigate the complex relationships with European powers, including Britain and France, as well as addressing concerns regarding American expansion and territorial integrity. His approach often emphasized diplomacy over military engagement, which reflected his overall philosophy about government and society.

In contrast, key figures like Alexander Hamilton and John Jay played significant roles in different capacities; Hamilton was the Secretary of the Treasury, focusing on economic matters, and Jay served as the first Chief Justice of the United States. James Madison, although an important founding father and later known for his presidency, was not part of Washington's initial cabinet.