Iconic Presidential Inaugurations
Three types of people watch inaugurations. Type one is the die-hard patriarchy supporter; type two is people who believe the candidate will destroy the country down to the ground; type three is people who want to see the outfits and performances. Let's dive deeply into the top three most iconic presidential inaugurations. We will review what they wore, iconic speeches and how that role played into their presidency, and who performed at their inauguration. 🇺🇸
When we mention any president, we must respect President George Washington since he was the first to do it all and set the standard for future presidents. President Washington's inauguration was very eventful; it lasted from sunrise to 10 pm. The military salute was fired at Fort George at sunrise to honor this new occasion. At 9 am, church bells in New York State rang for half an hour since this was Washington's resting state. As President Washington took an oath, he placed his hand on the Bible and afterward kissed it. Hundreds of citizens saw this from the street below and began to chant, "Long live George Washington, President of the United States." At 10 pm, President Washington took a carriage back home, but this wasn't efficient. People filled the streets, so it was difficult to travel back home by carriage, so he walked home. Imagine walking home on your inauguration because so many people showed up to show love and gratitude.
President Washington's inaugural address was everything but bland. "I walk on untrodden ground. There is scarcely any part of my conduct which may not be drawn to precedent hereafter be drawn into precedent." He makes an honorable mention of how he knows he's the first one ever to have this kind of role. He highlights how his actions as president of the United States will affect and set a precedent for the nation's future.
Although celebrities were not a thing during this time, George Washington had an iconic audience. Hundreds of citizens went to experience this, including Congress houses, American officials, New York State notables, and diplomats from France and Spain. Many stayed until his firework and illuminated performance later that night. John May reports it was "well executed" and "greeted with tumultuous applause."
George Washington wore a brown, single-breasted coat, waistcoat, and breeches (short pants that cover the body from the waist down.) President Washington's suit was made from American wool and was custom-tailored to him. Washington's choice of his outfit was a statement of national identity. It supported his belief that he was a servant of the people and not a monarch. His outfit was influenced by a Philadelphian mechanic who insisted on him wearing domestically produced clothing. President Washington's coat is displayed at the George Washington Mount Veron in Virginia. The coat was presented to Mount Veron by Elizabeth Taylor Tilford Kerferstein in 1930 since it was just getting passed down as a souvenir to the next generations.
When we mention iconic presidents, it's necessary to mention John F. Kennedy. President Kennedy is known for his imagery and his Camelot dream. President Kennedy's inauguration was inspiring; before he got sworn into office, he went to mass at Holy Trinity Catholic Church. He made this decision because of his religious practices since he was a devoted catholic.
At noon, the inauguration ceremony began at the U.S. capital, where JFK delivered his iconic inaugural speech that many feel tied to this day. JFK said, "Ask not what your country can do for you- but what you can do for your country." This stimulated Americans' minds because it gave them personal responsibilities and civic duty and encapsulated Kennedy's vision for a new era of public service and national unity. His words resonated deeply with the American public, inspiring a new wave of generations to make meaningful contributions to society. Kennedy's call to action defined his presidency and set the tone for the ideals of selflessness and collective progress that would shape the country in the coming years.
At 1 pm, the swearing-in ceremony began, and the president and First Lady attended a luncheon at the capital with diplomats and world leaders. The inaugural parade begins at 2 pm on Pennsylvania Ave. At 7 pm, the inauguration ball starts at the National Gaurd Armory, which carries into the 9 pm presidential gala, where we get the taste of President Kennedy and the First Lady dancing to "The Man I Love" by Ray Conniff.
President Kennedy had quite an audience at his inauguration. He had actors like Elizabeth Taylor and Henry Ford. Legendary artists like Frank Sinatra performed "High Hopes", Marian Anderson performed "The Stars Spangled Banner," and Robert Forst read the poem "The Gift Outright." Like every other governmental event, the U.S. Military Band was there to show honor and respect. The band played "Hail to the Chief," "America the Beautiful," "Battle Hymn of the Republic," and other patriotic songs.
President John F. Kennedy wore a navy blue wool suit by Ruby Gernreich. It was a modern cut and tailored just to his body. To go along with that, he wore a black overcoat by Hart Schaffner Marx since it was 22 degrees, and it was a go-to for American politicians. To tie the whole look together, he wore his infamous Oliver Goldsmith glasses, a symbol of intelligence.
President Obama is among the most effective presidents ever to grace America's soil. President Obama is known for all his good deeds like affordable act care, economic recovery, cultural and social change, and environmental policies. Another thing Barack Obama is known for is his iconic inauguration performances, which we will discuss later.
On January 20, 2013, President Obama was sworn in privately due to the 20th amendment, then publically sworn in on the 21st. January 21, 2013, at noon, President Obama delivers his 20-minute inauguration speech that focuses on economic recovery, equality, climate change, and the importance of unity in the nation. Directly after his speech, he goes on a parade with First Lady Michelle Obama that travels from Pennsylvania Ave to the White House at 12:26 pm Cuban- American poet Richard Blanco reads the poem "One Today," which focuses on unity and love.
President Obama's inauguration was filled with performances from start to finish. At 9:30, fifth graders from the public school perform the chorus. Directly after the U.S. military band performs, The Brooklyn Tabernacle choir sings "The Battle Hymn of the Republic" at 11:38 am. At 11:50, Rock& Roll Hall of Fame James Taylor performed "America is Beautiful." At 11:56 am, trumpets perform "Ruffles and Flourishes," the U.S. military band performs "Hail to the Chief," followed by a 21-gun salute. 12:21 pm Pop star Kelly Clarkson performs "America (My Country 'tis of Time)." 12:34 pm Beyonce performed the national anthem, "The Star Spangled Banner," for the Obamas once again since her iconic performance at their first inauguration, where she sang "At Last" by Etta James.
Aside from performing artists, many other celebrities came to the inauguration to show gratitude. Former President Bill Clinton and Secretary of State Hillary Clinton made an appearance. John Mayer and Katy Perry not only made an appearance but performed. Actors like Tom Hanks, Angelina Jolie, and Brad Pitt went to show honor and respect. Many international dignitaries were present, like the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom and Canada. Presidents from Columbia and South Korea attended.
For President Obama's second inauguration, he wore a dark navy blue, two-button suit designed and tailored by Hart Schaffner Marx. This Chicago-based brand was notable for its classic sharp look and modern twist. President Obama accessorized it with a blue tie, gray overcoat, and black gloves. His attire reflected a dignified and polished appearance fitting for the historic occasion while maintaining a balance of personal style and balance.
Inaugural ceremonies are not only a place for celebrating the peaceful transfer of power, but they also provide a platform for presidents to deliver their vision for the future, inspire the nation, and create lasting imprints. From George Washington's groundbreaking first inauguration to the inspiring speeches by John F. Kennedy and Barack Obama, these moments reflect the spirit of American democracy. Whether through iconic speeches, powerful performances, or carefully selected attire, each inauguration has imprinted on history, influencing future generations and cementing these moments in the hearts and minds of the American people. These ceremonies continue to remind us of the power of leadership, unity, and the shared responsibility of citizens in shaping the nation's future.
credit to @dollywons for the border!!



















