Lyndon B. Johnson Sworn In as President

The Moment That Changed History

Lyndon B. Johnson's Inauguration

On November 22, 1963, a tragic event unfolded that would alter the course of American history.

President John F. Kennedy was assassinated, which led to Vice President Lyndon B. Johnson being sworn in as the 36th President of the United States. This moment took place on Air Force One, at 2:39 PM CST on that fateful day, just two hours after Kennedy's assassination.

The Significance of the Swearing-In

The swearing-in of *Lyndon B. Johnson* was not just a formal transition; it symbolized the continuity of government during a crisis. With Jacqueline Kennedy by his side, Johnson took the oath from Judge Sarah T. Hughes, making it a historic moment for both the nation and the transition of power.

Johnson's Vision for America

Lyndon B. Johnson's Leadership Style

Following his swearing-in, Johnson took office with a vision of progressing towards civil rights, education reform, and healthcare through his ambitious program known as *The Great Society*. He aimed to build upon Kennedy's legacy and push forward the policies that aimed to shape a better future for all Americans.

Key Policies and Achievements

During his tenure, Johnson enacted significant legislation, including the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the establishment of Medicare and Medicaid, which transformed social welfare in America. His leadership in a tumultuous period demonstrated his commitment to progressing toward equality and improving the quality of life for Americans.

Fun Fact

Lyndon B. Johnson's Sworn In with an Unexpected Witness

Interestingly, during his swearing-in, *Lyndon B. Johnson* had a rare witness to his oath: First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy, who remained composed despite the shocking circumstances of her husband's assassination. The iconic photograph of this moment has since become a symbol of resilience.

Additional Resources

Recommended Reading on Lyndon B. Johnson

For those interested in exploring the life and impact of **Lyndon B. Johnson**, consider reading *The Passage of Power* by **Robert A. Caro**, which offers a deep dive into the complexities of Johnson's presidency during a challenging time in U.S. history.