Presidential Inaugurations
Read Digital EditionForeword, William SealeTaking the Oath of Office: The Capitol Connection, Donald R. Kennon"Not a Ragged Mob": The...
Main Content
In April 1789, George Washington took the oath of office in New York City. Constitutional guidelines for inaugurations are sparse, offering only the date and the words of the oath. All else is driven by tradition. After the oath is administered the president gives an address, usually one stressing national unity. Inaugural events have become more elaborate over the years, including parades, which have evolved into spectacular entertainments. Since the time James and Dolley Madison started the traditions of a White House reception and inaugural ball, such activities have been broadened to include a cross section of the American population. Receptions, balls, and other public events reflect the president’s need to include many diverse groups in the transition of power, even, at times, officially sanctioned protesters. More than a celebration of one person’s rise to power, modern inaugurations validate the republic’s democratic processes.
The Inaugural Address
President Harrison's Death & the Swearing In of John Tyler
Paying Tribute During Inaugurations
Ringing in the new Administration
A History of Reviewing Stands
Read Digital EditionForeword, William SealeTaking the Oath of Office: The Capitol Connection, Donald R. Kennon"Not a Ragged Mob": The...
Elaine Rice Bachmann
NUMBERS 1 THROUGH 6 (COLLECTION I) WHITE HOUSE HISTORY • NUMBER 1 1 — Foreword by Melvin M. Payne 5 — President Kennedy’s Rose Garden by Rachel Lambert...
On April 30, 1789, George Washington took the oath of office in New York City. Later he said of this new presidential...
Thomas Jefferson’s 1801 inaugural, the first held in the city of Washington, bore little resemblance to modern extravaganzas. Avoiding monarchical to...
A reviewing stand is usually constructed for the use of the president during the inaugural parade, the necessity arising as...
The peaceful transfer of presidential power from one administration to the next is a hallmark of American democracy. This transition,...
Article II, Section 1 of the Constitution specifies the oath the president takes in assuming the responsibilities of this highest executive...