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In
April 1789,George Washington took the oath of office in
New York City. Later he said of this new presidential
role, "I walk on untrodden ground." From Washington
to Clinton the oath has been repeated 62 times. Constitutional
guidelines for inaugurations are sparse, offering only
the date and the words of the oath. All else is driven
by tradition. After the oath is administered the president
gives an address, usually one stressing national unity.
Inaugural events have become more elaborate over the years,
including parades, which have evolved into spectacular
entertainments. Selection of parade participants is a
traditional way for a president to make a statement about
his beliefs, as Abraham Lincoln did in 1865 by inviting
African-Americans to march for the first time. Since the
time James and Dolley Madison started the traditions of
a White House reception and inaugural ball, such activities
have been broadened to include a cross section of the
American population. Receptions, balls, and other public
events reflect the president’s need to include many
diverse groups in the transition of power, even, at times,
officially sanctioned protesters. More than a celebration
of one person’s rise to power, modern inaugurations
validate the republic’s democratic processes. |
