John Hancock and George Washington served, respectively, as the Republic's first President and Commander-in-Chief Second United American Republic: The U nited States of America: 13 Independent States United in Congress was founded by 12 states on July 2nd, 1776 (New York abstained until July 8th), and governed through the United States Continental Congress.Peyton Randolph and George Washington served, respectively, as the Republic's first President and Commander-in-Chief First United American Republic: United Colonies of North America: 13 British Colonies United in Congress was founded by 12 colonies on September 5th, 1774 (Georgia joined in 1775) and governed through a British Colonial Continental Congress.