Donald Trump's Inauguration: Timeline & Events
On January 20, 2017, Donald Trump was sworn in as the 45th President of the United States, marking a significant moment in American history. His inauguration, however, was not without controversy and drew massive crowds both in support and opposition. Here's a breakdown of the key events and timeline:
Morning Events:
- 10:00 AM EST: Trump and his wife Melania arrived at the White House, officially moving into the residence. This marked the beginning of their term as First Family.
- 11:00 AM EST: Trump and Vice President Mike Pence attended a church service at St. John's Episcopal Church, a tradition for incoming presidents.
- 11:45 AM EST: The inaugural parade began, featuring marching bands, military units, and various floats. The parade route stretched from the White House to the Capitol Building.
Ceremony at the Capitol:
- 11:50 AM EST: The inauguration ceremony began on the West Front of the Capitol Building.
- 12:00 PM EST: Trump was sworn in as President by Chief Justice John Roberts. He then delivered his inaugural address, outlining his vision for America and promising to "Make America Great Again".
- 12:30 PM EST: Mike Pence was sworn in as Vice President by Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas.
- 12:45 PM EST: Trump delivered a brief speech, thanking the crowd and affirming his commitment to serve the American people.
- 1:00 PM EST: The inaugural ceremony concluded with a rendition of "God Bless America" by Jackie Evancho, a young singer who rose to fame on "America's Got Talent."
Afternoon Events:
- 2:00 PM EST: The inaugural luncheon was held in the Capitol Building's Statuary Hall. The event saw a performance by the Mormon Tabernacle Choir and featured a menu showcasing American cuisine.
- 4:00 PM EST: Trump and Pence attended an inaugural ball held at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center. The event included multiple dance floors, performances, and a special appearance by the president and vice president.
- 6:00 PM EST: Trump and Melania attended an additional inaugural ball held at the National Building Museum, offering a more intimate setting for the celebrations.
Public Reactions:
Trump's inauguration saw a massive turnout, with an estimated 250,000 supporters present. However, there were also significant protests against his presidency. Estimates of counter-protesters varied, with some sources placing the number at 200,000 or more. These protests were largely peaceful, but there were some instances of violence and property damage.
Key Points:
- Trump's inaugural address focused on themes of American nationalism, economic revitalization, and a commitment to "Make America Great Again".
- The event marked a significant transition of power, with Trump becoming the first Republican president since George W. Bush.
- The inauguration sparked debate and controversy, highlighting the deep political divisions in the United States.
The Aftermath:
Trump's inauguration marked the beginning of a highly controversial and polarizing presidency. His policies and rhetoric generated constant debate and criticism, with major controversies surrounding issues like immigration, healthcare, and foreign policy.
Conclusion:
Donald Trump's inauguration was a pivotal event in American history. It was a moment of celebration for his supporters, but also a source of anxiety and anger for his opponents. The event served as a catalyst for numerous political, social, and cultural debates that would continue to define the nation in the years to come.