Trump Swearing-In: 10 Facts From US Presidential Inauguration History That May Surprise You
Donald Trump Inauguration: Here is a brief history of US Presidential inaugurations, highlighting interesting facts and traditions.
Donald Trump Inauguration: On April 30, 1789, the United States of America got its first President, as George Washington took oath of office for the first time. From his second inauguration onwards in 1793, and until 1933, the event was held on March 4, barring in 1821, 1849, 1877, and 1917, when March 4 was a Sunday. In those years, the oath of office was administered on March 4 in a private ceremony, which was followed by a public inauguration on Monday, March 5. The practice continues to this day, even though the inauguration date shifted to January 20 from 1937. If January 20 is a Sunday, the ceremony takes place privately on that day and a public inauguration follows on Monday, January 21.
The US is all set to get its 47th President on Monday, January 20, with Donald Trump taking oath of office in Washington, DC as per protocol at noon (ET) — 10.30 pm in India.
US Presidential inaugurations have been an event steeped in traditions, evolving customs, and technological advancements that reflect the times. Here are ten interesting facts about US Presidential inauguration history that might surprise you.
1. The First Inauguration Took Place In New York City
George Washington's inaugural ceremony on April 30, 1789, occurred in New York City, then the nation's first capital. Initially scheduled for March 4, harsh winter weather delayed Congress from assembling to count the electoral votes. Washington travelled from Virginia to New York, greeted along the way by enthusiastic crowds and arriving in a grand barge across Newark Bay.
2. 'President' Won Over 'His Most Benign Highness'
Vice President John Adams suggested ornate titles for the new Chief Executive, including "His Most Benign Highness". However, Congress opted for the simpler and enduring title: "President of the United States."
3. The Tradition of 'So Help Me God' Began with Washington
Although the Constitution prescribes a 35-word oath of office, George Washington is believed to have added the phrase "So help me God" during his inauguration. This phrase has since become a standard part of the ceremony.
4. The First Inauguration In Washington, DC
Thomas Jefferson’s inauguration on March 4, 1801, marked the first time a president was sworn in at the newly established capital of Washington, DC. It has since become the permanent stage for presidential inaugurations, symbolising the central seat of American democracy.
5. Jefferson Walked To His Inauguration
Thomas Jefferson, known for his preference for simplicity, walked to the Capitol for his 1801 swearing-in, eschewing the pomp of a grand procession. This understated approach set a tone of accessibility for his presidency.
6. The First Inaugural Parade Was Spontaneous
Jefferson’s second inauguration in 1805 featured the first informal inaugural parade. He rode horseback from the Capitol to the President’s House, joined by a spontaneous crowd of well-wishers and music — a precursor to the elaborate parades we see today.
7. Inaugural Balls: From One To Many
The inaugural ball tradition began with James Madison in 1809 and his wife, Dolley, as the guests of honour. Over time, these celebrations grew. William Henry Harrison held three inaugural balls in 1841, and modern presidents often host multiple events to include more attendees.
8. Andrew Jackson's Open House Chaos
In 1829, Andrew Jackson held an inaugural open house at the White House. Overwhelmed by a mob of supporters, Jackson had to escape through a window as the crowd damaged furniture and broke china. This debacle led future presidents to rethink public access to inaugural celebrations.
9. 1857: First Inaugural Ceremony To Be Photographed
Technological advances have transformed how Americans experience inaugurations. James Buchanan’s ceremony in 1857 was the first to be photographed, while Calvin Coolidge’s 1925 inauguration was the first broadcast on radio. In 1949, Harry Truman’s ceremony was televised, and Bill Clinton's 1997 inauguration featured a dedicated website and live internet streaming.
10. The Shortest And Longest Speeches
George Washington holds the record for the shortest inaugural address, with just 135 words during his second term in 1793. In contrast, William Henry Harrison’s speech in 1841 spanned 8,445 words and took nearly two hours — delivered without a coat in freezing weather, contributing to his death from pneumonia a month later.
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