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Inauguration Day A Celebration of Democracy and Leadership

Inauguration Day

A Celebration of Democracy and Leadership

Ryker Bush

The Ashland Beacon



With the start of a new year, we say goodbye to 2024 and embrace the promise of 2025. But the arrival of the new year isn’t just a time for fresh beginnings—it also marks the crucial transition to a new president taking office. And before the leader of our nation begins their term, there is one key event that sets the stage: Inauguration Day.

Every year, on January 20th, a new president delivers their inaugural address—an essential speech that signifies the formal beginning of their presidency. The inauguration is not just a ceremony; it’s a powerful moment when the president steps into office, presents their vision for the future, and outlines their goals for the nation. The first inaugural address was delivered by none other than George Washington, who, after taking the oath of office at Federal Hall in New York City on April 30, 1789, spoke to the nation for the very first time. Since then, inaugurations have become an integral part of our democratic tradition, offering presidents a chance to reach the nation with inspiring and visionary words.

Inauguration Day is a time for reflection, hope, and determination. The words spoken on this day can echo through history, shaping the nation’s direction for years to come. Here are some memorable quotes from past presidential inaugural addresses that captured the spirit of their times:

Jan. 20, 1977:

“The American dream endures. We must once again have full faith

in our country—and in one another. I believe America can be better.

We can be even stronger than before.”— Jimmy Carter


Jan. 20, 1981:

“Your dreams, your hopes, your goals are going to be

the dreams, the hopes, and the goals of this administration,

so help me God.”— Ronald Reagan


Jan. 20, 1985:

“In this blessed land,

there is always a better tomorrow.”— Ronald Reagan


Jan. 20, 1989:

“We have more will than wallet;

but will is what we need.”— George H.W. Bush


Jan. 20, 1993:

“Each generation of Americans must define

what it means to be an American.”— Bill Clinton


Jan. 20, 1997:

“And so, my fellow Americans, we must be strong, for there is much to dare.

The demands of our time are great, and they are different. Let us meet them with

faith and courage, with patience and a grateful, happy heart.”— Bill Clinton


Jan. 20, 2001:“The most important tasks of a democracy

are done by everyone.”— George W. Bush


Jan. 20, 2005:

“We are led, by events and common sense, to one conclusion:

The survival of liberty in our land increasingly depends on the success of liberty

in other lands. The best hope for peace in our world is the

expansion of freedom in all the world.”— George W. Bush


Jan. 20, 2009:

“Now, there are some who question the scale of our ambitions,

who suggest that our system cannot tolerate too many big plans.

Their memories are short, for they have forgotten what this country has

already done, what free men and women can

achieve when imagination is joined to common

purpose and necessity to courage.”— Barack Obama


Jan. 21, 2013:

“But we have always understood that when times change,

so must we; that fidelity to our founding principles requires new responses to new challenges; that preserving our individual freedoms ultimately requires collective action.”— Barack Obama


These quotes are more than just words—they are a reflection of the momentous responsibility that comes with leading the nation. Inauguration Day is a reminder of the power of democracy, the resilience of the American spirit, and the vision each new president brings to the table. Yesterday marked the end of one era and the beginning of a new one. Yesterday we witnessed history in the making as Donald J. Trump was sworn into office as the 47th President of the United States of America.

 

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The Ashland Beacon’s owners, Philip and Lora Stewart, Kimberly Smith, and Jason Smith, established The Greater Ashland Beacon in 2011 and over the years the Beacon has grown into what you see now… a feel-good, weekly newspaper that brings high quality news about local events, youth sports, and inspiring people that are important to you. The Greater Ashland Beacon prides itself in maintaining a close relationship with the community and love nothing more than to see businesses, youth, and civic organizations in the surrounding areas of Boyd and Greenup counties thrive. 

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