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Second inauguration of Barack Obama facts for kids

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The second inauguration of Barack Obama was a special event where Barack Obama officially started his second term as President of the United States. It was the 57th time a U.S. President had an inauguration ceremony. Joe Biden also began his second term as Vice President at the same time.

There were two parts to the inauguration. A private ceremony happened on Sunday, January 20, 2013. This took place in the Blue Room at the White House. The main public ceremony was held the next day, Monday, January 21, 2013. This bigger event happened on the West Front of the United States Capitol building in Washington, D.C..


What is a Presidential Inauguration?

An inauguration is a formal ceremony where a person officially takes a new job or position. For the U.S. President, it's when they take an oath to faithfully do their job. This ceremony marks the start of their term in office. It's a very important tradition in American politics.

Obama's Second Term Begins

Barack Obama was first elected President in 2008. He was re-elected for a second term in November 2012. Presidents can only serve two terms. So, this inauguration marked the beginning of his final four years as President. It was a big moment for him and the country.

The Private Swearing-in Ceremony

The U.S. Constitution says a President's new term officially starts at noon on January 20. Because January 20, 2013, was a Sunday, a smaller, private ceremony was held. This made sure President Obama was officially sworn in on time. It happened inside the White House.

The Public Ceremony and Celebration

The larger public ceremony took place on Monday, January 21. This allowed more people to attend and celebrate. Thousands of people gathered at the Capitol building. Many important guests, including former presidents and members of Congress, were there.

  • The Oath of Office: President Obama took the oath of office, which is a promise to protect the Constitution.
  • Inaugural Address: After taking the oath, the President gives a speech. This speech is called the inaugural address. In it, the President talks about their plans and hopes for the country.
  • Parade and Balls: After the ceremony, there was a parade down Pennsylvania Avenue. The President and Vice President, along with their families, walked part of the way. Later, there were several inaugural balls. These are parties to celebrate the new term.

Images for kids

  • Obama Inauguration Capitol preparation 1-21-13

    The Capitol, inauguration preparations complete, January 19, 2013, two days prior to the public ceremonies

  • Barack Obama before 2013 inauguration

    President Obama arriving at his second inauguration

  • Barack Obama talks with Joe Biden at the 2013 inauguration

    Obama talks with Biden during the inaugural swearing-in ceremony.

  • 2013 Inauguration Richard Blanco

    Blanco reading his poem One Today

  • Barack Obama and Michelle Obama in inaugural parade 01-21-13

    President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama walking in the inaugural parade following the public inauguration at the United States Capitol building.

  • Barack and Michelle Obama dance at the 2013 inaugural ball

    President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama dance during one of the inaugural balls.

  • 2013 National Prayer Service

    President Obama and Vice President Biden and their wives in the front pew at the Washington National Cathedral on January 22, 2013

See also

Kids robot.svg In Spanish: Investidura presidencial de Barack Obama en 2013 para niños

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