Inauguration
A symbolic and ceremonial tradition that marks the beginning of a president's term of office.


Article II of the Constitution requires an oath of office for the president.  The 20th amendment later set January 20th as Inauguration Day. Other inaugural traditions have evolved, such as the inaugural address, the first speech of the president’s term.

In this lesson:  Learning About Inaugural Addresses (below), Inauguration Worksheet (PDF),  and lessons about inaugural addresses of these five presidents:  George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, Franklin D. Roosevelt, John F. Kennedy, George W. Bush

Learning About Inaugural Addresses

George Washington's Oath of Office took place in New York City in 1789* An inaugural address, or speech, has become a presidential tradition. The address is the first of a presidency. Here, the chief executive has a chance to distance himself from campaign rhetoric and speak to the American people as their elected leader. Consider these discussion questions, or click on any of the presidents for individual lessons. 1. Read the oath of office below. What message does it send? Given that these are the only words required by the Constitution, why do you think presidents choose to deliver an inaugural address as well? "I do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will faithfully execute the Office of President of the United States, and will to the best of my Ability, preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States" (U.S. Constitution, Article II, Section 1). 2. Read the quote below. Consider presidents during significant periods in American history. How might they have used their inaugural addresses to communicate? What might George W. Bush want to say on January 20, 2005? “[A]n inaugural address, particularly one that marks a change in administration, is the most carefully written and elaborately rehearsed speech of any president’s career, and it provides a remarkably reliable indication of what matters to a new president and how he wants to be perceived.”  –Author Wayne Fields in Union of Words: A History of Presidential Eloquence. Inauguration Lessons Inauguration Worksheet (PDF) Washington Lincoln FDR Kennedy Bush (43)

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