President Clinton's Second
Inauguration

 Despite chilly weather, more than 200,000 people gathered at the U.S. Capitol on January 20, 1997. President Bill Clinton had decisively defeated his Republicam opponent, Robert Dole, in the November, 1996, election. Now Clinton was about to become the 19th man to be sworn in twice as President.

Coatless, despite the cold, Clinton watched as Vice President Albert Gore Jr., took his oath of office. Then Clinton placed his hand on a bible held by First Lady Hillery Rodham Clinton and was sworn in by Chief Justice William H. Rehnquist. In his inaugural address, Clinton attacked the racism that divides the country and, noting that the inauguration coincided with Martin Luther King Day, paid tribute to the slain civil-rights leader. He called on Republicians and Democrats to put aside party rivalries and "move on with America's mission. America demands and deserves big things from us," he said, "And nothing big ever comes from being small."

After the inaugural parade, which included bands from across the nation- as well as a group of Ohio Unicyclists doing the macarena!- the Clintons returned to the White house to get ready for the inaugural balls. Emerging from their car, the 49 year old President and the First Lady greeted the cheering crowds, who chanted, "U.S.S! U.S.A.!!"

DID YOU KNOW....Presidential terms began in March until the 20th Ammendment changed the date to January 20 in 1933.

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