Broadcasting at Presidential Inaugurations
For nearly a century, broadcasters have been instrumental in capturing and reporting on Presidential inaugurations, enabling Americans throughout the nation to share in the continuity of democracy and shifts in leadership that the ceremony symbolizes. The photos and audio clips below, taken from the Library of American Broadcasting collection at the University of Maryland, demonstrate the history of broadcasters' front-and-center prominence every four years on January 20.
1961
Listen to John F. Kennedy's inauguration speech opening, January 20, 1961.
- NBC news anchors Chet Huntley and David Brinkley (left to right) observe the inauguration of President John F. Kennedy in the broadcasting booth in front the Capitol Building, January 20, 1961.
- The broadcast booth sits in front of the Capitol Building allowing journalists to observe the inauguration of President John F. Kennedy, January 20, 1961.
1965
1969
Listen to Richard Nixon's inauguration speech opening, January 20, 1969.