Customer Reviews

Democracy's Big Day: The Inauguration of Our President

5 star:		(3)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

This book is filled with fascinating details about every presidential inauguration in United States history. Most people probably have not given a great deal of thought to inaugurations, but writer Jim Bendat opens the door to a series of intriguing, and sometimes important, details. For example, Abraham Lincoln was the first president to invite a free African American to attend an inauguration. Lyndon Johnson was the first president to be sworn in by a woman.

This engaging book provides us with an insight into a wealth of little known facts about American history. Anyone interested in history (or trivia, though there is much more to it than trivia) will be delighted by this book.

The writing is lively and spirited. The subject matter is unforgettable. The book is terrific.

This is an excellent book for the historian and the casual reader of American history. The style is relaxed and the content is strong. There is at least a synopsis in anecdotal form of every inauguration in U.S.history. With constant controversy surrounding contemporary presidential elections, this book is genuinely a must read. It captures not just the information, but the actual drama of the inaugurations and peppers that with fascinating tidbits. For example, did you know that Frederick Douglass was at Lincoln's second inauguration reception? Or that Franklin Pierce had no lights, no dishes and no bedroom of his own, the first night of his White House stay?

This book is worthy of more than one read and endless "pick-it-up-when-you-get-a-second" reads! Very good, very cool book. Both for someone wanting something interesting to read and for an addition to a historian's library. Here's hoping that Mr. Bendat writes more!

With wit and wisdom, Bendat discusses all aspects of Inauguration Day -- from the president-elect's morning coffee with the president, to the afternoon parade, to the evening inaugural galas -- all with an eye toward the historical and hysterical." L.A Times, January 20, 2001.