The president of the United States of America (often shortened to POTUS) is the head of government and chief executive of the United States. The office of president was created in the United States Constitution in 1788. The first president (George Washington) took office in 1789. The president is in charge of the executive branch of the United States government. The United States Constitution makes the president the Commander-in-Chief of the armed forces. It also lists powers given to the President, though these powers have been expanded through practice over time.