Tradition of Presidential Inaugural Addresses

Most Presidents use their Inaugural address to present their vision of America and to set forth their goals for the nation. George Washington established the tradition of the inaugural address on April 30, 1789. In government and politics, inauguration is the process of swearing a person into office and thus making that person the incumbent. Such an inauguration commonly occurs through a formal ceremony or special event, which may also include an inaugural address by the new official. Modern Inaugural festivities reflect not only the President they honor, but also the desire to include the many Americans