Why was it significant that george washington was the first person elected to the presidency? his ambitions greatly expanded the powers of the presidency. his early actions served to establish important precedents that greatly increased the political legitimacy of the office. his military leadership as president was critical during the war of 1812. his ambitions set up an early struggle between congress and the presidency. his early actions served to weaken the office of the presidency, making it subservient to congress for much of american history?