James Buchanan's inauguration as the 15th President of the United States took place on March 4, 1857. The ceremony was held on the East Portico of the U.S. Capitol. Buchanan's inauguration is notable for being the first presidential inauguration known to be photographed.
While photography was still a relatively new technology at the time, the event was documented, capturing a significant moment in American history for posterity. Buchanan's presidency, however, would be overshadowed by the growing tensions over slavery, ultimately leading to the American Civil War.
Warren G. Harding's inauguration as the 29th President of the United States took place on March 4, 1921, on the East Portico of the U.S. Capitol. Chief Justice Edward Douglass White administered the oath of office. Harding's inaugural address, known for its eloquence and optimism, promised a return to "normalcy" after the turmoil of World War I, emphasizing national unity, economic prosperity, and a renewed focus on American interests.
This marked the beginning of the "Roaring Twenties," an era characterized by economic growth and social change. A famous photograph captured a unique moment during the inauguration, showing Harding, along with outgoing President Woodrow Wilson, former Secretary of State Philander C. Knox, and former Speaker of the House Joseph G. Cannon, riding together in a convertible. This image symbolized the peaceful transition of power and the respect for past leaders, even with differing political ideologies.
Harry S. Truman's first inauguration occurred in the Cabinet Room of the White House on April 12, 1945, following the death of President Franklin D. Roosevelt. The country was in the throes of World War II, and Truman faced immense pressure as he assumed leadership during a critical moment in history.
Chief Justice Harlan F. Stone administered the oath of office in the Cabinet Room, with only a small group of witnesses, including First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt and key staff. He asked Eleanor, "Is there anything I can do for you?" She famously replied: "Is there anything we can do for you? For you are the one in trouble now."
On January 20, 1989, George H.W. Bush was sworn in as the 41st President of the United States, succeeding Ronald Reagan. The ceremony, held on the West Front of the U.S. Capitol, was a momentous occasion. Chief Justice William Rehnquist administered the oath of office, while First Lady Barbara Bush stood proudly by her husband's side. This inauguration marked the beginning of Bush's presidency, a period that would be defined by significant global events, including the end of the Cold War.
This inauguration was historically significant because he was the first sitting vice president to be elected president since Martin Van Buren in 1837, outside of a predecessor's death or resignation. Additionally, Bush was the last World War II combat veteran to take the oath of office. Bush opened his inaugural address with a prayer he had written himself, a tradition not seen since Dwight D. Eisenhower included his own prayer in his 1953 inauguration speech.
James A. Garfield's inauguration as the 20th President of the United States in 1880 was a significant moment in American history. However, his presidency was tragically cut short. He was sworn in during March and was assassinated in September of the same year. Garfield faced immense pressure from job seekers, a common occurrence at the time. Sadly, this pressure contributed to his tragic death just months into his term.
James Garfield’s inaugural address was historically underwhelming, criticized as a "compendium of platitudes" that failed to meet expectations. Despite its shortcomings, the speech had a notable moment when Garfield emphasized the importance of civil rights for African Americans, declaring that freedom could not be fully realized if any citizen faced obstacles to virtue and opportunity. He also touched on the gold standard, the need for education, and unexpectedly denounced Mormon polygamy before concluding.
Gerald Ford's 1974 inauguration was a historic event that occurred in the aftermath of the Watergate scandal. Following President Richard Nixon's resignation, Ford was sworn in as the 38th President of the United States in the East Room of the White House. This marked the first time in American history that a Vice President had succeeded to the presidency due to the resignation of his predecessor.
Ford's inauguration was a somber occasion, reflecting the nation's deep divisions and the need for healing. In his address following the swearing-in ceremony, Ford famously declared, "My fellow Americans, our long national nightmare is over." This statement, captured in a now-iconic photograph, expressed his hope for a new beginning and a return to trust and confidence in government.
Bill Clinton’s first inauguration on January 20, 1993, was a momentous occasion that marked a generational shift in American leadership. The ceremony at the U.S. Capitol featured many memorable moments, including a now-iconic photograph of Clinton taking the oath of office. Standing between his wife, Hillary Rodham Clinton, and their daughter, Chelsea, Clinton placed his hand on the Bible as Chief Justice William Rehnquist administered the oath.
After Clinton delivered his inaugural address, celebrated poet Maya Angelou recited her poem “On the Pulse of Morning.” Despite never officially serving as poet laureate, she is often regarded with the same respect. Written specifically for the inauguration, her poem echoed themes from Clinton’s speech, such as change and shared responsibility. She was the second poet to perform at a presidential inauguration, following Robert Frost in 1961.
Like Calvin Coolidge's late night inauguration, Lyndon B. Johnson was denied a proper ceremony after the assassination of JFK in Dallas. November 22, 1963, Vice President Johnson was sworn in mere hours afterward aboard Air Force One at Dallas Love Field airport. In a now-famous photo, 27 people crowded around the new president, Jackie Kennedy included, as witnesses.
The circumstances were tragic, yes, and led to more unusual proceedings. Obviously, this was the first ceremony to take place on an airplane. It also remains the first and only time a woman has administered the oath of office.
The first 1923 inauguration of Calvin Coolidge was a highly unusual event. Following the unexpected death of President Warren G. Harding, Vice President Coolidge was sworn in at his family home in Plymouth Notch, Vermont, in the early hours of August 3rd. Administered by his own father, a notary public, the ceremony took place in the family parlor by the light of a kerosene lamp, a stark contrast to the traditional pomp and circumstance of presidential inaugurations.
For his second inaugration, Coolidge had a proper ceremony on March, 4, 1925. It marked his only full term as president, and the oath was administered by Chief Justice William Howard Taft, marking the first time a former president did so. It was also the first inauguration to be broadcast on national radio.
The 1913 inauguration of Woodrow Wilson marked a significant shift in American politics. After 16 years of Republican rule, Wilson, a Democrat, assumed the presidency. In his inaugural address, he outlined his vision for a "New Freedom," emphasizing the need to restore competition, curb the power of big business, and protect the rights of ordinary Americans. This marked a departure from the conservative policies of his predecessor, William Howard Taft, and signaled a more active role for the federal government in addressing social and economic problems.
One of the most enduring images from that day is the photograph of outgoing President Taft congratulating incoming President Wilson. This powerful image has become a symbol of the peaceful and respectful transfer of power, a cornerstone of American democracy. It highlights the importance of upholding democratic institutions and traditions, even amidst political rivalry.
On January 20, 1973, President Richard Nixon and First Lady Pat Nixon rode in an open car during their second inaugural parade. As they passed cheering crowds, Nixon delivered a now-iconic gesture: a double victory salute. With both hands raised high, he extended his index and middle fingers to form the letter "V," a symbol of peace and victory.
This image, captured by countless photographers, became a defining moment of Nixon's second term. It conveyed a sense of triumph and optimism, though this period would ultimately be overshadowed by the Watergate scandal.
Jimmy Carter’s walk to the White House in 1977 broke from tradition and made history. Instead of riding in the presidential limousine, Carter and his wife, Rosalynn, walked down Pennsylvania Avenue after his swearing-in. This unprecedented move was a symbol of his commitment to the people, aiming to bridge the gap between the government and its citizens.
Surrounded by cheering crowds, Carter’s stroll conveyed a message of humility and accessibility. It was a bold, relatable gesture that set the tone for his presidency, reflecting his down-to-earth approach and desire for a more transparent, approachable leadership.
John F. Kennedy's inauguration speech on January 20, 1961, is etched in history for its eloquence and enduring impact. Delivered with fervor and optimism, Kennedy's address called for a new era of civic responsibility and global cooperation. His famous line, "Ask not what your country can do for you—ask what you can do for your country," resonated deeply, inspiring a sense of patriotism and public service.
The speech also emphasized the United States' commitment to defend freedom worldwide, setting a visionary tone for his presidency. Kennedy’s words continue to inspire and challenge Americans to contribute to the greater good.
Barack Obama's inauguration oath in 2009 marked a historic moment as he became the first African American president of the United States. The ceremony, however, included a memorable hiccup: Chief Justice John Roberts and Obama flubbed the wording of the oath. This minor stumble led to a second, private swearing-in the next day to ensure constitutional correctness.
Despite this glitch, the occasion was celebrated for its profound significance and Obama's message of hope and change. The mix-up did little to overshadow the jubilant spirit of the day, which symbolized a significant step forward in American history.
John Quincy Adams' swearing-in on March 4, 1825, was a notable departure from tradition. Instead of taking the oath on a Bible, Adams placed his hand on a book of law, symbolizing his belief in the rule of law over religious influence in government. The ceremony, held in the House Chamber, reflected Adams' scholarly and principled nature.
His inauguration marked the beginning of a presidency committed to modernization and national improvement, although his tenure would be fraught with political challenges. Adams' unconventional choice during his swearing-in underscored his commitment to a government guided by reason and legal principles.
During the 2017 presidential inauguration, an awkward moment occurred between Melania Trump and Michelle Obama. As the Trumps arrived at the White House, Melania presented Michelle with a gift in a Tiffany & Co. box.
Visible discomfort was apparent. Michelle, unsure where to place the gift as cameras flashed, grinned while appearing uncomfortable. It was a common case of good intentions gone awry, at the highest level.
Franklin Delano Roosevelt's inauguration speech on March 4, 1933, was a beacon of hope amid the Great Depression. Addressing a nation mired in economic despair, Roosevelt delivered his famous line, "The only thing we have to fear is fear itself." His powerful oratory instilled confidence and called for collective action to overcome the crisis.
Roosevelt outlined his New Deal vision, promising bold and persistent experimentation to revive the economy and restore public faith in the government. His speech marked the beginning of a transformative era, reassuring Americans that better days lay ahead under his leadership.
In 1945, the country was still in the throes of war, so FDR made the choice to forgo the inaugural parade and other festivities that typically come with this day. He was also suffering from heart failure at the time, so he decided on a simple ceremony and a five minute speech at the White House.
His words, though less buoyant than previous addresses, reaffirmed his commitment to guiding the nation through its most challenging times. This historic inauguration underscored both the gravity of the moment and Roosevelt’s enduring resolve to lead the United States toward victory and recovery.
Dwight D. Eisenhower's inauguration on January 20, 1953, marked the beginning of a new era of leadership. The ceremony was a grand affair, with Eisenhower taking the oath on two Bibles, symbolizing his strong moral and religious convictions.
The ceremony was notably enlivened by a surprising moment: cowboy star Montie Montana lassoed the president while he rode in the inaugural parade. This light-hearted act delighted spectators and showcased Eisenhower's good-natured personality. Despite the serious global context, this playful incident added a memorable, human touch to the day's events, symbolizing Eisenhower's approachability and the optimistic spirit of post-war America.
The inauguration of George W. Bush in 2001 was marred by protests due to the controversial outcome of the election. Despite losing the popular vote to Al Gore, Bush secured the presidency through the Electoral College. This contentious victory sparked demonstrations in Washington, D.C., where protesters voiced their discontent with the electoral process.
The scene outside the Capitol reflected a divided nation grappling with the legitimacy of Bush's presidency—hmm, sounds familiar. Amid heightened tensions, Bush's inauguration underscored the need for unity and healing in a deeply polarized political landscape.
Teddy Roosevelt's inauguration parade in 1905 was a colorful spectacle, reflecting his dynamic personality and diverse interests. The parade featured a mix of military bands, cowboys, Native American delegations, and even a group of Rough Riders from his days in the Spanish-American War. Roosevelt's love for adventure and conservation was evident as well, with participants showcasing exotic animals and outdoor pursuits.
The eclectic parade captured the spirit of Roosevelt's presidency, characterized by his progressive policies, robust diplomacy, and zest for life. It remains one of the most memorable and diverse inaugural parades in American history.
Andrew Jackson's 1829 inauguration party became infamous for its wild and chaotic nature. After his swearing-in, Jackson invited the public to the White House, resulting in an overwhelming turnout. The crowd quickly grew unruly, with partygoers trampling furniture, breaking china, and even standing on upholstery in their muddy boots.
The festivities spiraled out of control, leading Jackson to escape through a window for his own safety. Eventually, the crowd was lured outside with tubs of punch.
Abraham Lincoln's inauguration speech in 1861 was a pivotal moment as tensions brewed between North and South. With the nation on the brink of civil war, Lincoln sought to reassure and unify a divided country. His address emphasized the importance of preserving the Union while respecting the rights of all states.
Despite his conciliatory tone, Lincoln made it clear that he would not compromise on the issue of slavery. The speech served as a call to action for Americans to uphold the principles of democracy and to strive for a more perfect union amidst the tumultuous times.
William Henry Harrison's inauguration speech in 1841 holds a tragic distinction as the longest in history, clocking in at nearly two hours. Given outdoors on a cold, rainy day, Harrison, eager to prove his stamina, spoke without wearing an overcoat or hat.
Unfortunately, this display of fortitude proved fatal, as Harrison developed pneumonia shortly afterward and died just 31 days into his presidency. His lengthy address, filled with lofty rhetoric about national unity and progress, ultimately became overshadowed by the brevity of his tenure.
In 1981, President Ronald Reagan lived up to his legacy as one of the most popular presidents in modern history by giving America a feeling of optimism again after the country felt it was on the decline. Reagan also made the day all the more spectacular by moving the ceremony to the West Front of the Capitol.
Reagan's message of hope and renewal resonated deeply with the American public. He famously declared, "Government is not the solution to our problem; government is the problem," expressing his belief in the power of individual initiative and limited government intervention.
President Bill Clinton’s second inauguration in 1997 made history because it was the first to be live-streamed on the internet. The Clintons also made headlines at this inauguration for attending a record-breaking 14 inaugural balls!
Clinton's reelection victory buoyed the spirits of his supporters, despite ongoing political controversies. His inaugural address struck themes of unity and progress, emphasizing the need for continued economic growth and social justice.
In 2017, controversy swirled around Donald Trump's inauguration when edited and fake crowd photos circulated widely. Despite Trump's claims of record-breaking attendance, images comparing his inauguration crowd to that of Barack Obama's in 2009 revealed stark differences.
Some photos were digitally altered to exaggerate the size of the crowd, while others were misleadingly cropped. The discrepancies fueled debates about media bias and the new administration's integrity.
Amanda Gorman captivated the world as the inaugural poet at Joe Biden's Inauguration Day in 2021. At just 22, she became the youngest poet to perform at a presidential inauguration, delivering her original work, "The Hill We Climb."
Gorman's stirring words echoed themes of unity, resilience, and hope, capturing the spirit of a nation grappling with division and turmoil. Her powerful performance resonated deeply, inspiring millions with her eloquence and vision for a better future.
One of the most unexpected and lighthearted moments of Joe Biden's Inauguration Day in 2021 was the viral meme featuring Bernie Sanders. Clad in a practical winter coat and distinctive mittens, Senator Bernie Sanders sat cross-legged in the crowd, exuding practicality amidst the pomp and ceremony.
The image quickly became a social media sensation, with users humorously inserting Sanders into various scenes and situations around the world.
Kamala Harris made history on Inauguration Day 2021 as the first female Vice President of the United States. Sworn in by Justice Sonia Sotomayor, Harris shattered barriers as the highest-ranking woman in U.S. history.
Her inauguration marked a milestone for diversity and representation, inspiring women and people of color across the country. Harris, with her background as a senator and former attorney general, brought a message of unity and progress to the ceremony.
