David McCullough, Pulitzer-winning historian, dies at 89
David McCullough, the Pulitzer Prize-winning author whose lovingly crafted narratives on subjects ranging from the Brooklyn Bridge to Presidents John Adams and Harry Truman made him among the most popular and influential historians of his time, has died.
Perfect tranquility: Some resonating words from the first inauguration
The inauguration of George Washington as the first President of the United States. (Photo by MPI/Getty Images)Things have changed quite a bit since the first presidential inauguration in 1789. Illustration of American general and politician George Washington (1732 - 1799) receiving the news of his election as the first American president, 1789. While emphasizing the public good, Washington addressed the need for a strong Constitution and Bill of Rights. He also said he would be declining pay beyond what the public good thought was required.
Trump joins a select few in skipping Biden's inauguration
John Adams and John Quincy Adams also opted not to participate in a tradition that began with George Washington. The White House Historical Association points out that John Adams was never formally invited by his successor, Thomas Jefferson, to the event and perhaps didnโt want to impose. He did not call on Adams, nor did Adams invite Jackson to the White House. Some four decades later, President-elect Ulysses S. Grant refused to ride with President Andrew Johnson from the White House to the Capitol for the ceremony. Rather, Ford was administered the oath of office in the White House East Room shortly after Nixon had tendered his resignation to avoid impeachment.
Candidate concessions have been colorful, funny โ or absent
FILE - In this Nov. 4, 1992, file photo, President George H.W. Bill Clinton won the 1992 president election. Most concessions are gracious โ less about the loser and more about closure for the country. โJust moments ago I spoke with George W. Bush and congratulated him on becoming the 43rd president of the United States. President John Adams was glum, too.