From George Washington to Barack Obama, Presidents have used inaugural addresses to articulate their hopes and dreams for a nation.Collectively, these addresses chronicle the course of this country from its earliest days to the present.
Inaugural addresses have taken various tones, themes and forms. Some have been reflective and instructive, while others have sought to challenge and inspire. Washington’s second inaugural address on March 4, 1793 required only 135 words and is the shortest ever given. The longest on record—8495 words—was delivered in a snowstorm March 4, 1841 by William Henry Harrison.
Invoking a spirit of both history and patriotism, inaugural addresses have served to reaffirm the liberties and freedoms that mark our remarkable system of government. Many memorable and inspiring passages have originated from these addresses.
This collection includes the great inaugural addresses of 38 presidents of the United States. It is our hope that this volume will serve as an important and valuable reference for historians, scholars and English learners.
作者：（美）奧巴馬等
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