Who served as the first Secretary of War under President Washington?

The first Secretary of War under President Washington was Henry Knox. Appointed in 1789, Knox played a crucial role in shaping the early United States military structure following the Revolutionary War. His experience as a military officer contributed to developing the new nation's defense policies and overseeing the army. Knox's leadership helped transition the wartime militia into a more organized and professional military force, establishing foundational practices that would endure in American military governance. His position was significant in the context of a newly formed government, where the development of a national defense strategy was essential to ensuring the country's security and stability.