The Inauguration of Dwight D. Eisenhower
Dwight D. Eisenhower delivers his Inaugural Address after taking the oath of office as President. Former Presidents Harry Truman and Herbert Hoover, and other dignitaries, look on. 01/20/53.
-from the Eisenhower Library
Source: research.archives.gov
On this day in 1789, George Washington delivered the first Presidential Inaugural Address.
George Washington’s first inauguration took place at Federal Hall in New York City, where the first Congress was assembled. Keenly aware of the momentousness of the occasion, Washington accepted the Presidency and spoke of his determination to make the American experiment a success. All eight pages of the speech delivered to Congress are in George Washington’s own clear and distinctive handwriting.
Here are images of the opening of George Washington’s first inaugural address, April 30, 1789; and a portrait of President Washington hanging in the Oval Office of the White House, 11/5/1946. ID #199469
Source: archives.gov
Which Presidential Inaugural Address was Best?
This question just came in from a fan of the National Archives:
“Is there a consensus as to which presidential inaugural address was the best? I recognize that in this case “beauty is in the eye of the beholder” and it may be more accurate to think of the top five rather than single one out. Any advice would be appreciated.”
Photo of President Franklin D. Roosevelt delivering his fourth Inaugural Address, 1/20/45.
Help a fellow out. Which Presidential inaugural addresses are at the top of your list?
Source: blogs.archives.gov
