Eight Inaugural Addresses to Commemorate President’s Day

A president’s inaugural address often reflects the contemporary political, social, and economic climate of the nation. For President’s Day, explore eight presidential inaugural speeches, from George Washington to Barack Obama. How do these speeches reveal the historical era in which they were delivered?

George Washington’s First Inaugural Address, 1789
"And since the preservation of the sacred fire of liberty, and the destiny of the republican model of government, are justly considered as deeply, perhaps as finally staked on the experiment entrusted to the hands of the American people."

Abraham Lincoln’s First Inaugural Address, 1861
"You have no oath registered in Heaven to destroy the government, while I shall have the most solemn one to ‘preserve, protect and defend’ it . . . There needs to be no bloodshed or violence; and there shall be none, unless it be forced upon the national authority."

Herbert Hoover’s Inaugural Address, 1929
"Ours is a land rich in resources; stimulating in its glorious beauty; filled with millions of happy homes; blessed with comfort and opportunity. In no nation are the institutions of progress more advanced . . . No country is more loved by its people. I have an abiding faith in their capacity, integrity and high purpose. I have no fears for the future of our country. It is bright with hope."

Franklin D. Roosevelt’s First Inaugural Address, 1933
"This great Nation will endure as it has endured, will revive and will prosper. So, first of all, let me assert my firm belief that the only thing we have to fear is fear itself . . . In every dark hour of our national life a leadership of frankness and vigor has met with that understanding and support of the people themselves which is essential to victory. . . . The Nation asks for action, and action now."

John F. Kennedy’s Inaugural Address, 1961
"Let every nation know, whether it wishes us well or ill, that we shall pay any price, bear any burden, meet any hardship, support any friend, oppose any foe to assure the survival and the success of liberty . . . And so, my fellow Americans: ask not what your country can do for you—ask what you can do for your country."

Ronald Reagan’s First Inaugural Address, 1981
"From time to time, we have been tempted to believe that society has become too complex to be managed by self-rule, that government by an elite group is superior to government for, by, and of the people. But if no one among us is capable of governing himself, then who among us has the capacity to govern someone else? All of us together, in and out of government, must bear the burden."

Barack Obama’s First Inaugural Address, 2009
"The time has come to reaffirm our enduring spirit; to choose our better history; to carry forward that precious gift, that noble idea passed on from generation to generation: the God-given promise that all are equal, all are free, and all deserve a chance to pursue their full measure of happiness."