Presidential inaugurations in the United States mark the peaceful transfer of power, a cornerstone of American democracy. The tradition began with George Washington's first inauguration on April 30, 1789, in New York City. Over time, these ceremonies have grown from simple, formal events into highly anticipated public spectacles that reflect the nation's evolving culture and politics. From small gatherings to grand parades, inaugurations serve as both a symbolic start to a presidency and a moment of unity for the country.
Ceremony on the Move
Locations of U.S. presidential inaugurations have shifted over time, reflecting the growth and changes in the United States.
- George Washington’s first inauguration in 1789 took place on the balcony of Federal Hall in New York City, the nation's temporary capital at the time. His second was held in Philadelphia, where several subsequent inaugurations occurred while the city served as the U.S. capital.
- Starting with Thomas Jefferson in 1801, Washington, D.C., became the permanent site of presidential inaugurations. In fact, most inaugural ceremonies have taken place at the U.S. Capitol, though the exact location within the Capitol has varied over time.
- Inaugurations between 1801 and 1829 were typically held in the Senate Chamber or the House of Representatives, reflecting the smaller scale of early ceremonies.
- From Andrew Jackson’s first inauguration in 1829 until Jimmy Carter's in 1977, the East Front of the Capitol was the hosting site, offering a stately backdrop for the oath of office.
- Since Ronald Reagan’s 1981 inauguration, the West Front has been used, providing more space for public attendance and a sweeping view of the National Mall.
In spite of every attempt to adhere to historical convention, there have been notable exceptions to the Capitol tradition.
- Franklin D. Roosevelt's fourth inauguration in 1945 was held on the South Portico of the White House due to the constraints of World War II.
- Some inaugurations have been relocated indoors due to weather or extenuating circumstances, such as William H. Taft's in 1909 and Ronald Reagan's second in 1985.
- One inauguration took place on an airplane — in 1963, Lyndon B. Johnson was sworn in aboard Air Force One following the assassination of John F. Kennedy.
Inaugural Flags
U.S. flags, naturally, have been a consistent feature of presidential inaugurations. The use of flags at inaugurations has developed some patterns and traditions over time. Usually, inaugurations prominently feature the official American flag of the era, draped across the Capitol's East Front, often alongside smaller flags mounted on poles framing the platform.
Historic flags, such as the 13-star "Betsy Ross" flag or the 15-star flag from the era of the War of 1812 (the Star-Spangled Banner), have also appeared as nods to significant moments in U.S. history. However, until recently, their inclusion had been less consistent.
Since the mid-20th century the arrangement of flags has become more standardized. Large flags are typically displayed in symmetrical patterns on either side of the presidential podium, creating a backdrop that centers attention on the swearing-in. Flanking these flags are either vertical banners or panels of red, white, and blue bunting.
Since 1981, the arrangement of flags on the Capitol's West Front has included a massive central display on the Capitol itself, often spanning multiple stories. This display frequently features a mix of full-sized American flags and vertical stripes in the national colors, designed to fill the entire structure with patriotic imagery.
Custom flags play a unique role in every inauguration. These flags are typically ordered by the Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies (JCCIC), which oversees the event's planning and logistics. They are produced to exacting specifications, ensuring proper proportions, vibrant colors, and durable materials suitable for this specific display.
The flags used on the Capitol facade are much larger than standard flags, with dimensions tailored to the scale of the building to ensure visual impact for both live attendees and televised audiences.
The Capitol flags are mounted on custom frames or secured with special fastenings to withstand wind or adverse weather. On the inaugural platform, flags are placed at strategic intervals around the president-elect and other key participants, framing the event for photographs and broadcast footage.
Did you know?
The shortest inaugural address in U.S. history was from George Washington, delivered on March 4, 1793, for his second term as president. Washington’s speech lasted only 135 words, taking less than two minutes to deliver. His brevity was likely influenced by the still-forming traditions surrounding the presidency and the lack of precedent for lengthy inaugural speeches. Unlike modern inaugural addresses, which often delve into political philosophy and future aspirations, Washington’s speech was succinct, expressing gratitude and acknowledging the challenges ahead.
Washington’s Second Inaugural Address in 1793:
"I am again called upon by the voice of my country to execute the functions of its Chief Magistrate. I repair to the task with a humble, a thankful heart, and the hope that my country will give me the support which may enable me to accomplish the task. I have no other view than to do the best I can to serve you and our country. I shall give you all the support in my power. May God bless you, and may he guide me in this responsibility."
The longest inaugural address in U.S. history belongs to William Henry Harrison, delivered on March 4, 1841. Harrison’s speech stretched over 8,000 words, lasting nearly two hours, and is infamous for being both long-winded... and for contributing to his untimely death.
Harrison, at 68 years old, delivered the address on a cold, rainy day in Washington, D.C. He chose to forgo a coat and hat in favor of making a strong impression, enduring the weather to demonstrate his vigor and commitment to the office.
Unfortunately, his decision to stand outside in the cold may have led to him contracting a severe cold, which quickly developed into pneumonia. Just 31 days later, Harrison became the first U.S. president to die in office.
Here's an illustrative excerpt from Harrison’s Inaugural Address in 1841:
"In considerations of the vast importance of the interests of the people of this Union, I have carefully reviewed the duties assigned to the Chief Magistrate by the Constitution, and I am determined to fulfill them with the utmost devotion to the public good. The responsibilities of this office, the obligations to the citizens who have chosen me, and the work that I must undertake, are of the greatest weight. The government must remain steadfast in its support of liberty, justice, and equality for all citizens. The laws must be followed, the freedoms preserved, and the Union preserved for future generations. I call upon you, my fellow citizens, to aid me in these tasks, for in unity lies our strength."
Harrison’s speech, a sweeping reflection on democracy and the power of the people, did not stray from the ideals of the era, though it’s widely remembered for its excessive length and lack of focus. Ironically, after such a verbose start to his presidency, Harrison’s time in office was cut tragically short by illness. His speech’s content, while emphasizing national unity and dedication to the Constitution, ultimately proved to be the last major act of his presidency.
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