kids encyclopedia robot

Second inauguration of Ronald Reagan facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts
President Reagan being sworn in for second term in the rotunda at the U.S. Capitol 1985
Reagan being sworn in as president, January 20, 1985

Ronald Reagan became the 40th President of the United States in January 1985. This event was called his United States presidential inauguration. It marked the start of his second term as president. George H. W. Bush also began his second term as Vice President at the same time.

What is an Inauguration?

An inauguration is a special ceremony. It happens when a new president or vice president officially starts their job. During this event, they take an oath. This oath is a promise to do their best for the country. It's a very important tradition in the United States.

Two Ceremonies for Reagan's Second Term

Reagan's second inauguration had two parts. The first ceremony was private. It took place on January 20, 1985. The second ceremony was public. It happened the next day, on January 21.

Why Two Ceremonies?

Usually, a president is sworn in on January 20. But in 1985, January 20 was a Sunday. Presidents usually don't have public ceremonies on Sundays. So, they held a small private event first. The big public ceremony was moved to Monday.

The Private Ceremony

The private ceremony happened inside the White House. It was in a large room called the Grand Foyer. President Reagan took his oath of office there. This moment was shown live on television for everyone to see.

The Public Ceremony

On January 21, President Reagan took the oath again. This time, it was a big public event. Chief Justice Warren E. Burger led the oath. This public ceremony was a grand celebration.

Related Information


Images for kids

See also

Kids robot.svg In Spanish: Investidura presidencial de Ronald Reagan en 1985 para niños

kids search engine
Second inauguration of Ronald Reagan Facts for Kids. Kiddle Encyclopedia.