U.S. Presidential Inauguration

government · american-history · ceremony

Timing of the ceremony. The inauguration happens between 73 and 79 days after the presidential election. This gives the president-elect and government time to prepare for the transfer of power.

The oath of office. The main event of an inauguration is when the president-elect takes the presidential oath of office, making it official that they are now the president of the United States.

Even for second terms. Inaugurations happen for every new presidential term, even if the same president is staying in office for another four years. They must still take the oath again.

Constitutional requirement. The oath of office is required by the Constitution, which is the most important document in the U.S. government that explains how everything works.

A major celebration. Inaugurations are huge national ceremonies where the president officially becomes the leader and citizens celebrate the start of a new chapter in American history.