These days, a presidential motorcade means massive traffic jams and a procession of bullet-proof vehicles, but things were very different in the 1800s. President James Monroe traveled to Madrid in 1805 and it was quite an unusual journey. The reason for the trip was his intention to persuade the Spanish to give up the land which is now Florida to the United States.
He made his way from Paris to Madrid on the back of a mule, but his slow and probably uncomfortable journey did not convince the Spanish to make any concessions.
Polk’s Strict Rules
Being president is no joke, but James K. Polk may have gone a little overboard. His wife was religious, and they were intent on keeping the White House a fun-free zone.
They went so far as to ban alcohol, dancing, and card playing at all White House receptions. In order to respect their wishes, dancing at the inaugural ball only began once the president and his wife left.
James Monroe
Founding father James Monroe was America’s 5th president and served between 1817 and 1825. Monroe was a very popular candidate and won the election by a landslide. He was also the first American president to remain in office for two terms.
Monroe was president during “The Era of Good Feelings”, which took place after the War of 1812, and in which the political hatchet between Federalists and Republicans was buried. He fought in the American Revolutionary War and made great advancements in foreign policy, the pinnacle of which was “The Monroe Doctrine.”
Barack Obama
The 44th president of the United States, Barack Obama, made history by becoming the first ever African-American president. During his time in office, in the years 2009 to 2017, Obama made some momentous changes, including signing the Affordable Care Act which strived to bring health care to all Americans.
He was instrumental in brokering the Iran nuclear deal, revoking the “Don’t Ask Don’t Tell” policy in the military and restoring relations between the U.S. and Cuba. Obama left behind a legacy of tolerance and inclusion.
Obama’s Inauguration
President Obama’s inauguration was an inspiring event. Over 1 million people turned up and Beyoncé gave an emotional rendition of the national anthem.
Obama stirred the hearts of many during his speech when he said, “Our journey is not complete until our gay brothers and sisters are treated like anyone else under the law.”