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JULY 3 AND 4 HOLIDAY NOTICE: The Thomas Jefferson Building will be open to visitors with timed-entry tickets on Friday July 3rd, and Saturday July 4, from 10:00am – 5:00pm. The Main Reading Room and The Source will be open to the public from 10:00am – 5:00pm. All other reading rooms are closed in observance of the federal holiday, and there will be no research availability or reader registration on both days.

Presentation Inaugurations: Stepping into History

Inaugurations: Stepping into History

The Inauguration of President McKinley, 1897

Every inauguration is a historic event.

Beginning with George Washington, each U.S. president has brought a unique personal history to the nation's highest office, a different set of priorities, and an inimitable character. In turn, each has put a distinctive stamp on the presidency, and on the nation itself.

Taking a close look at the moments in which these leaders first took office can provide rich opportunities to investigate the history of the United States as it has changed over the centuries. It can also provide unique insights into these remarkable individuals as they first stepped into history.

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