Inauguration Day

Government under the Constitution of the United States began on March 4, 1789. Inauguration day was officially March 4 from 1793 through 1933.

The four months between a presidential election in early November and an inauguration on March 4 proved to be too long. By the 20th Amendment to the Constitution (ratified in 1933), inauguration day was changed to January 20.

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The White House Historical Association | Exhibits

George Washington takes the Oath of Office at Federal Hall in New York City, 1789. Library of Congress