Trump's Presidential Inauguration: A Timeline of Events
Donald Trump's inauguration as the 45th President of the United States on January 20, 2017, was a highly anticipated and widely discussed event. This timeline provides a detailed overview of the day's events, from the early morning preparations to the evening celebrations.
The Morning: Preparations and Protests
8:00 AM EST: The day began with the traditional Presidential Inaugural Prayer Service held at St. John's Episcopal Church, a short distance from the White House. The service was attended by President-elect Trump, Vice President-elect Mike Pence, and other dignitaries.
10:00 AM EST: Trump and Pence left the Blair House, their temporary residence, and headed towards the Capitol Building for the swearing-in ceremony.
10:30 AM EST: Protests began across the city, with large groups gathering near the National Mall, the location of the inauguration ceremony. Some demonstrations were peaceful, while others turned violent.
The Swearing-In Ceremony
11:30 AM EST: The official swearing-in ceremony commenced at the Capitol Building. Chief Justice John Roberts administered the oath of office to Donald Trump, who officially became the 45th President of the United States. Pence was sworn in as Vice President shortly after.
12:00 PM EST: Trump delivered his inaugural address, outlining his vision for the country and setting the tone for his presidency. His speech was met with a mix of cheers and jeers from the crowd.
Inaugural Parade and Lunch
1:00 PM EST: Following the swearing-in, the inaugural parade began, featuring military bands, floats, and marching groups. The parade made its way down Pennsylvania Avenue from the Capitol Building to the White House.
2:00 PM EST: Trump and Pence, along with their families, attended a luncheon at the Capitol Building with Congressional leaders and other dignitaries.
Inaugural Ball and Evening Celebrations
7:00 PM EST: The evening saw a series of inaugural balls held throughout Washington, D.C. Trump and Pence attended several balls, dancing with their spouses and greeting guests.
10:00 PM EST: As the festivities wound down, President Trump and First Lady Melania Trump returned to the White House, marking the end of an historic day.
Aftermath and Significance
Trump's inauguration was a highly controversial event, with divisions in the country reflected in the size of the crowds and the tone of the protests. It marked the beginning of a tumultuous presidency, with significant policy changes and a high level of public debate throughout his term.
This timeline provides a brief overview of the day's events. However, it's important to remember that the inauguration was a complex and multi-faceted event with many different perspectives and interpretations.
Further research and analysis of the event are encouraged to gain a deeper understanding of its historical significance and its impact on American politics.