Inauguration Day is more than just swearing in a new president; it’s an American tradition steeped in history and hopeful rhetoric. Since George Washington’s first inaugural address, these speeches have become a ritual where every president has the chance to unify the nation, reaffirm shared values, and set the tone for their leadership. By exploring artifacts and memorable words from past inaugurations, we gain insight into how these speeches fuse ceremonial expectations with deeply-rooted American ideals, shaping the first act of a new administration.
For a more complete recap on one of the first American traditions, check out this article from The Conversation.
