First inauguration of Thomas Jefferson facts for kids
(cropped).jpg)
|
|
| Date | March 4, 1801 |
|---|---|
| Location | United States Capitol, Washington, D.C. |
| Participants | Thomas Jefferson 3rd president of the United States — Assuming office John Marshall Chief Justice of the United States — Administering oath Aaron Burr 3rd vice president of the United States — Assuming office James Hillhouse President pro tempore of the United States Senate — Administering oath |
|
|
|
The first inauguration of Thomas Jefferson happened on March 4, 1801. This special event marked the start of Thomas Jefferson's first four years as the third president of the United States. It also began Aaron Burr's time as vice president. Chief Justice John Marshall officially swore Jefferson into office.
Contents
The 1800 Presidential Election
Before becoming president, Jefferson was the nation's second vice president. He served under President John Adams. In the 1800 election, Jefferson ran against Adams.
Jefferson was a member of the Democratic-Republican Party. His campaign manager was Aaron Burr. Back then, the person who won the most votes became president. The person who came in second became vice president.
A Tied Election
In the 1800 election, something unusual happened. Both Aaron Burr and Thomas Jefferson received the same number of votes. These votes came from the Electoral College.
Because of this tie, the decision went to the House of Representatives. This group of lawmakers had to choose the next president. After many votes, Alexander Hamilton helped swing the choice. On the 36th vote, the House chose Jefferson as president.
Jefferson's Inauguration Day
The inauguration took place on a mild day in Washington, D.C.. It was the first time a presidential inauguration was held in this city. The temperature was about 55 degrees Fahrenheit at noon.
That morning, an artillery company fired shots to welcome the new day. Jefferson also did something new. He gave a copy of his speech to a newspaper, the National Intelligencer. This meant people could read it right after he delivered it.
A Message of Unity
Jefferson's speech was 1,721 words long. Its main message was about bringing people together. This was important because the 1800 election had been very competitive. There were strong disagreements between the political parties.
Jefferson stayed at a boarding house near the United States Capitol building. Around noon, he began his walk to the ceremony. He was dressed like a "plain citizen," without any special uniform.
The Oath of Office
Jefferson walked with some lawmakers and military officers. He was the first president to walk to his inauguration instead of riding in a carriage. He gave his speech in the Senate chamber of the United States Capitol.
After his speech, Jefferson took the oath of office. Chief Justice John Marshall gave him the oath. Marshall was impressed by this peaceful transfer of power.
New Traditions Begin
The Marine Band played music for the first time at this inauguration. This became a standard practice for future inaugurations.
Outgoing President John Adams did not attend the ceremony. He was sad about losing the election. He was also grieving the death of his son, Charles Adams. Adams left Washington, D.C., early that morning. This was the first time an outgoing president did not attend his successor's inauguration.
See also
- Presidency of Thomas Jefferson
- Second inauguration of Thomas Jefferson
- 1800 United States presidential election
