Today in History: Lincoln’s Inauguration

Lincoln's First Inaugural Address

Today in History–March 4–the Library of Congress features the first inauguration of President Abraham Lincoln, conducted  on this date in 1861. Times were tense  and Lincoln delivered his inaugural address under the guard of riflemen. In the speech he called for compromise and appealed for the preservation of the Union. Learn more about President Lincoln’s first day in office by visiting the Today in History section, then click the links below to access more primary source about both of Lincoln’s inaugurations and more.

First inauguration

Second inauguration

More Lincoln primary source collections & teaching resources 

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