A Brief History of Presidential Inaugurations

A visual online presentation tracing the rich history of one of America's most celebrated and proud traditions ... Click the title link to view.

White House History : 15 Presidential Inaugurations

A few selections from the White House History Journal archives:

• "Not a Ragged Mob": The Inauguration of 1829, by David S. Heidler and Jeanne T. Heidler [PDF]


• The Building of the Inaugural Reviewing Stands (2009), by William Seale [PDF]

Backgrounder : Presidential Inaugurations

A brief feature created for the press for background history purposes in advance of Barack Obama's 2009 Inauguration.

White House FAQs : Communication Advancements and Inaugurations

How have advances in communication technology contributed to the public’s awareness of the inaugurations of the presidents? ... Click the title link to find out.

Presidential Inaugurations Exhibit

This online panel translation of our White House Visitors Center exhibit traces the history and tradition of inaugurations, "the culmination of our nation's peaceful electoral process."

Classroom: Primary Document Lesson ...

The Revolution of 1801 / Thomas Jefferson's First Inaugural Address : March 4, 1801