Inauguration

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An inauguration is a ceremony of formal investiture whereby an individual assumes an office or position of authority or power. The term is usually used in reference to a politician's assumption of the duties of head of state or head of government (e.g. the President's inauguration).

Political inaugurations often have lavish ceremonies, in which the politician publicly takes his or her oath of office in front of a large crowd of spectators.

The term is from the Latin "inaugurare" which means "to take omens from the flight of birds". A Roman official was never installed without the approval of the birds.

The term inauguration may also refer to a formal beginning or introduction (e.g. the inauguration of a new Canada–United States border crossing).

[edit] State and religious leaders who are inaugurated

• King of Spain
• The Pope and his successors
• President of France
• President of Ireland—November 11, unless term of predecessor shortened by death, resignation or removal from office
• President of the United States—January 20, following election

Further information: Inauguration Day

• Queen of the Netherlands
• President of Ukraine

[edit] See also

• Coronation
• Inaugural Addresses of the Presidents of the United States