When was the first Cabinet formed in the United States?

The first Cabinet of the United States was formed in 1789, shortly after George Washington took office as the first President. The Cabinet was established as part of the executive branch to aid the President in making decisions and managing the various departments of the federal government. Initially, this Cabinet consisted of key figures such as Thomas Jefferson as Secretary of State, Alexander Hamilton as Secretary of the Treasury, and Henry Knox as Secretary of War.

This formation of the Cabinet marked a significant step in the development of the executive branch, establishing a framework for how the President would govern with the assistance of trusted advisors. The idea of a Cabinet was rooted in the need for a collective advisory team to address the complexities of governing a new nation. Consequently, 1789 is recognized as a pivotal year in American history, marking the start of an organized executive branch led by a president who would consult with his Cabinet on essential issues of national importance. The other choices represent years not associated with the establishment of the Cabinet, such as the Declaration of Independence in 1776, the start of Thomas Jefferson's presidency in 1801, or years preceding and following the initial formation without relevance to the Cabinet itself.