The Presidential Inauguration School Trip Highlights

The Presidential Inauguration School Trip Highlights

As Americans, we often forget there is a moment during the Presidential Inauguration when one person cedes power to another upon the taking of the Oath. There is no bloodshed. Former President George Washington played a key role in making this possible. Today this event is part of his legacy.

Matthew Spalding, Vice President, American Studies and Director, B. Kenneth Simon Center for Principles and Politics wrote the following:

“We take for granted the peaceful transferal of power from one President to another, but it was Washington’s relinquishing of power in favor of the rule of law—a first in the annals of modern history—that made those transitions possible. “The moderation and virtue of a single character,” Thomas Jefferson tellingly noted, “probably prevented this Revolution from being closed, as most others have been, by a subversion of that liberty it was intended to establish.”His peaceful transfer of the presidency to John Adams in 1797 inaugurated one of America’s greatest democratic traditions. King George III said that Washington’s retirement, combined with his resignation 14 years earlier, “placed him in a light the most distinguished of any living man” and made him “the greatest character of the age.”  (2012)

“I do solemnly swear that I will faithfully execute the Office of the President of the United States, and will to the best of my Ability, preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States." A quote said every four years on January 20th by a President while taking their oath of office. 

The swearing-in ceremony has allowed for the peaceful transfer of power from one individual to the next.  The quote has been said by every President since 1789, including former president George Washington. The oath of office is typically given by the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court. 

Question: George Washington was the only President who has been inaugurated in two different cities! Can you guess where? 

The inaugural ceremony is traditional for the President addressing the public and providing their ideas for the new administration to come. During the 1800's as John Adams left office, this was known as the first peaceful transfer of power between political opponents. 

Watch the History Channel's documentary on our "Founding Fathers" for more in depth information on the following topic.  

On your next school trip, we recommend visiting during The Presidential Inauguration. Watch how the peaceful transfer of power becomes alive in Washington, D.C.

Fun Fact Answer: New York and Philadelphia