Experts Advisory: Experts on the Historic 2009 Presidential Inauguration

 

ALBANY, N.Y. (January 9, 2009) -- UAlbany faculty experts offer insight into the historic 2009 presidential inauguration.

Historical Perspective -- When George Washington was sworn in as U.S. president for the second time in 1793, he gave the shortest inauguration speech ever - just 135 words.  Since then Inauguration Day has changed dramatically, including the event's host city and timing.

• Richard Hamm, chairman, History Department, provides the historical perspective and discusses how the 2009 inauguration compares to those of the past.
• Helen Desfosses, associate professor, Public Administration and Policy, offers insight into what Americans can expect from the 2009 inauguration -- from Barack Obama's address to the record-breaking crowds and media coverage.

First African American President -- Barack Obama shattered more than 200 years of history by winning election as the first African-American president of the United States.

• Marcia Sutherland, chairwoman, Africana Studies, offers insight into the racial significance of Obama's election as the nation's 44th president.

Visit UAlbany's extensive, searchable roster of faculty experts.

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