GWB inauguration day on Thursday

Some inauguration facts: (from a C-Span video titled "Inauguration Exhibit at the White House Visitor's Center")

+ The presidential inauguration was not always on January 20.

+ George Washington, the first president, was inaugurated on April 30, 1789.

+ When January 20 falls on a Sunday, the new president is inaugurated in a private ceremony that day, but the public ceremony is moved to the next day.

+ Harry Truman's inauguration was the first to be broadcast on television.

+ Kennedy's inauguration in 1961 had the first television coverage in color.

+ There is usually some sort of parade, and the tradition started in Jefferson's time in 1801 with a haphazard move -- he walked from his boarding house and people followed.

+ LBJ was sworn in on Air Force One in an emergency inauguration.

+ Reagan in 1985 was sworn in inside the capitol building because it was so cold outside.

+ The inaugural balls are the culmination of the day, and they are very elaborate. There are 9 balls this year for George W. Bush's inauguration to a second term.

+ Article 2, Section 1 of the constitution expressely states the oath of office. "I do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will faithfully execute the Office of the President of the United States, and will to the best of my Ability preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States."

+ George W. Bush will be inaugurated for his second term in office, with his first inauguration held on January 20, 2001. His speech can be viewed here.

+ This year's inauguration of George W. Bush will cost close to $80 million,

+ There will be about 11,000 participants in parade on Thursday, and will last about 2 hours.