This Inauguration Day and how it differs from the past

Professor Brooks D. Simpson, ASU Foundation Professor of History, talked with us about the history of the Inauguration, and also how this one is different than in years past because of Trump not attending and COVID-19.

This year has had unique circumstances with an attack on the capital. The pandemic has impacted the attendance of the Inauguration and the form of the ceremony. There has been a couple of examples of Presidents leaving town on Inauguration Day. Simpson discusses and gives examples of this happening.

We also talk about how the conditions take a role in the Inauguration. It has affected past president’s speeches because of the cold. George Washington had the shortage inaugural address with 135 words in his speech. We discuss some of the curiosities of Inauguration Day.

Simpson talks about President Biden’s inaugural address. He said he saw this as a time for reconciliation and renewal. Simpson says the Inauguration is a day people will not take for granted anymore.