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Today in History: Barack Obama inaugurated as first Black president

1/20/2026

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Summary

Story summary

On January 20, 2009, Barack Obama was inaugurated as the 44th president of the United States, becoming the first African American to hold the office. The ceremony took place at the U.S. Capitol and attracted record attendance, marking a historic moment in American history. Joe Biden was inaugurated as vice president alongside him.

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Story summary

On January 20, 2009, Barack Obama was inaugurated as the 44th president of the United States, becoming the first African American to hold the office. The ceremony took place at the U.S. Capitol and attracted record attendance, marking a historic moment in American history. Joe Biden was inaugurated as vice president alongside him.