INAUGURATION 2001
"Great innovations," said Thomas Jefferson, "should not be forced on slender majorities." Thus we're happy to note that the pageantry of an inauguration, in this uncertainty-riven season, is one of the traditions we can absolutely count on. Charlie Brotman calling the parade, opportunists of every stripe jostling for advantage, endless lines for overpriced cups of listless white wine are all predictable aspects of the quadrennial phenomenon. As is the noisy majesty of our enduring Republic.
But inaugurations take preparation, too. The crowd is as important as the players, and that's where we come in. The history-minded Sheet has put together a handy guide that may not be able to divine anything about the deadlocked Senate, but can definitely tell you where to rent a tux. That can't predict the next Supreme Court nominee, but can definitely tell you the best place to go to accessorize your dress. That can't get you into where you want to be, necessarily, but can definitely tell you how to handle yourself once you're there.
INAUGURATION 2001 | EVERYONE LOVES A PARADE | HAVING A BALL | SURVIVAL GUIDE