National Mall To Be Closed On Inauguration Day

A diverse group of people, dressed in formal attire, standing in front of a closed gate at the National Mall on Inauguration Day.. — National mall to be closed on inauguration day illustration

Welcome to WhatNationalDayIsIt.com! Today, we're diving into the fascinating history of the National Mall's closure on Inauguration Day.

When is Mall To Be Closed On Inauguration Day?

It's national mall to be closed on inauguration day on the 14th January.

The National Mall and Inauguration Day

Every four years, on January 20th, the United States inaugurates a new president. This momentous occasion is marked by various traditions and ceremonies, including the temporary closure of the National Mall in Washington, D.C.

Known as 'America's Front Yard,' the National Mall stretches for two miles from the United States Capitol to the Lincoln Memorial. It's a symbolic and historic stretch of land, hosting countless rallies, concerts, and protests throughout the year.

Why Close the Mall?

On Inauguration Day, the closure of the National Mall is necessary to ensure the safety and security of the event. It allows for a controlled environment where attendees can witness the peaceful transfer of power. The closure also facilitates the logistics and organization of the inauguration activities.

During the closure, a security perimeter is established around the National Mall, restricting public access. This perimeter helps maintain order and guarantees the safety of both participants and spectators.

The Inaugural Ceremony

The inauguration of a new president takes place on the West Lawn of the United States Capitol, adjacent to the National Mall. This location provides a picturesque backdrop for the historic event. Thousands of people gather to witness the swearing-in ceremony, listen to speeches, and celebrate the beginning of a new presidency.

Did You Know?

Did you know that the first inauguration held on the National Mall was in 1801, when Thomas Jefferson became the third President of the United States? Since then, the Mall has become the iconic setting for this significant moment in American democracy.

History behind the term 'Mall To Be Closed On Inauguration'

1961

The Inauguration of John F. Kennedy

In 1961, John F. Kennedy was inaugurated as the 35th President of the United States. The event attracted an unprecedented number of visitors, leading to significant security concerns. To ensure the safety of the President and attendees, Washington D.C. authorities made the decision to close down the area surrounding the Capitol Building, where the inauguration ceremony took place. This first closure of the Mall during an inauguration set the precedent for future inaugurations.

1789

First Presidential Inauguration

The term 'mall to be closed on inauguration' finds its roots in the United States during the first presidential inauguration. On April 30, 1789, George Washington was inaugurated as the first President of the United States in New York City. This historic event marked the beginning of a long-standing tradition of celebrating the peaceful transition of power. The city authorities decided to close certain public spaces, including the mall, to ensure the safety and smooth functioning of the inauguration ceremony.

1801

Inauguration Move to Washington, D.C.

In 1801, the nation's capital was moved from New York City to Washington, D.C. Thomas Jefferson became the first President to be inaugurated in the newly constructed city. As the capital grew and developed, the term 'mall' came to be associated with the iconic National Mall, which stretches between the U.S. Capitol Building and the Lincoln Memorial. This expansive space would play a significant role in future inaugurations, leading to the use of the term 'mall to be closed on inauguration.'

1969

The Inauguration of Richard Nixon

In 1969, Richard Nixon was inaugurated as the 37th President of the United States. The Mall closure during his inauguration was particularly notable due to the emerging anti-Vietnam War sentiment and the presence of anti-war protesters. To maintain security and prevent potential clashes, authorities decided to close the Mall to the general public during the ceremony. This closure highlighted the growing cultural significance and political impact of the term 'mall to be closed on inauguration'.

1981

The Inauguration of Ronald Reagan

In 1981, Ronald Reagan became the 40th President of the United States. His inauguration marked another milestone for the term 'mall to be closed on inauguration'. As an increasing number of spectators flocked to the Mall to witness the ceremony, security concerns became even more pronounced. The closure of the Mall during Reagan's inauguration demonstrated a concerted effort to prioritize the safety and order of such significant national events, solidifying the term's cultural impact.

1865

Assassination of Abraham Lincoln

One of the most tragic events in U.S. history occurred on April 14, 1865, when President Abraham Lincoln was assassinated at Ford's Theatre in Washington, D.C. The aftermath of this devastating incident led to enhanced security measures during presidential inaugurations. In order to ensure the safety of the incoming President and the attendees, the closure of the National Mall became a vital part of the inauguration planning process.

1901

McKinley's Assassination Reinforces Security Measures

The assassination of President William McKinley in 1901 further highlighted the need for heightened security during presidential inaugurations. This tragic event prompted authorities to impose stricter measures, including the closure of the National Mall to the public during the inauguration ceremonies. The use of the term 'mall to be closed on inauguration' became even more prevalent as these security protocols increased.

2009

The Inauguration of Barack Obama

The inauguration of Barack Obama in 2009 was a historic moment for various reasons. One aspect of significance was the impact on the term 'mall to be closed on inauguration'. Obama's inauguration drew an unprecedented crowd, estimated at over one million attendees. To accommodate the immense number of people and ensure adequate security measures were in place, the Mall was closed for the public during the ceremony. This closure not only underscored the term's cultural significance but also reflected the enthusiasm and excitement surrounding Obama's presidency.

2001

Post-9/11 Security Enhancements

In the wake of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, security concerns reached unprecedented levels. This had a profound impact on presidential inaugurations, leading to even stricter security measures. The closure of the National Mall, as well as other public spaces, became a crucial component of protecting the President, dignitaries, and attendees during this momentous occasion. The term 'mall to be closed on inauguration' gained renewed significance in an era marked by heightened security awareness.

Did you know?

Fun Fact: Over 1.8 million people attended Barack Obama's first inauguration in 2009, making it one of the most well-attended events in National Mall history!