Second inauguration of Bill Clinton facts for kids
The second inauguration of Bill Clinton was a special ceremony where he officially started his second term as the 42nd President of the United States. This important event happened on January 20, 1997. It was also the very last time a president was inaugurated in the 1900s!
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What Happened at the Ceremony?
The inauguration ceremony began with a prayer, called an invocation, given by Reverend Billy Graham. After that, everyone said the Pledge of Allegiance.
Then, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, who was a judge on the Supreme Court, gave the oath of office to Al Gore. He was starting his second term as Vice President.
After the oath, a famous opera singer named Jessye Norman sang a mix of patriotic songs for the crowd.
President Clinton Takes His Oath
After the music, Bill Clinton stood with his daughter, Chelsea Clinton, while his wife, Hillary Clinton, held a Bible. Many important people were there, including members of Congress, other leaders, Supreme Court judges, and his family and friends.
The Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, William Rehnquist, gave President Clinton the oath of office. This happened at 12:05 pm. President Clinton finished the oath by saying the traditional words, “So help me God.”
After the oath, the National Anthem was sung. Then, a poet from Arkansas named Miller Williams read a poem he wrote just for the event. It was called “Of History and Hope.” President Clinton then gave his speech to the nation.
Celebrations and Special Details
That night, there were 14 different official parties, called galas, held to celebrate the President and First Lady.
The day of the inauguration, January 20, 1997, was also Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. In his speech, President Clinton talked about Dr. King and how he worked hard for equal rights and freedom for African Americans during the Civil Rights era.
After the oath, a special meal was served at the Capitol building. The food was made using old recipes from the time of President Thomas Jefferson.
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See also
In Spanish: Investidura presidencial de Bill Clinton en 1997 para niños
