by Sarah Baafi
Monday, January 20, 2025, will be a remarkable day in U.S. history, marking the historic inauguration of a new president. Only a few inaugurations, such as George Washington’s in 1789 and Abraham Lincoln’s in 1861, carry greater historical weight. However, this event will rival Franklin D. Roosevelt’s 1933 inauguration during the Great Depression.
For the second time in U.S. history, a former president is returning to the White House after a term out of office. The last to achieve this was Grover Cleveland in 1892.
This moment also symbolizes a milestone in the “Make America Great Again” movement. Donald J. Trump’s rise began in 2015 when he emerged as an unexpected political force, defeating 16 Republican candidates and then overcoming Hillary Clinton. His presidency was marked by battles with the establishment, including the Mueller investigation, two impeachment trials, and relentless political opposition. Despite challenges, Trump reasserted dominance within the GOP, overcame two assassination attempts, and endured legal battles. He secured a decisive electoral college victory of 312-226 against Kamala Harris, supported by over 77 million Americans.
President Trump’s reform agenda poses a significant challenge to the national establishment. His plans echo the transformative presidency of Andrew Jackson, who reshaped U.S. financial systems in 1829. Trump’s commitment to reform signals a dramatic shift in domestic and international policy.
Even after a period of national decline, the United States remains a global superpower. Trump’s rejection of prolonged foreign conflicts and his emphasis on high tariffs to protect American jobs mirrors the economic policies of President William McKinley. This marks a departure from decades of open-border policies and unbalanced trade agreements, signaling a potential shake-up of the global economic order.
President Trump also champions space exploration. With initiatives like the U.S. Space Force and partnerships with visionaries like Elon Musk, he aims to establish American dominance in space. His administration could see humans settle on the Moon and begin colonizing Mars, securing his legacy as a leader who reshaped humanity’s future.
Trump’s commitment to ambition, hard work, and resilience reflects his dedication to revitalizing the American dream, rooted in Thomas Jefferson’s ideal of “pursuit of happiness.”
As the nation approaches the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence in 2026, Trump’s presidency offers an opportunity to celebrate America’s history and inspire a vision for its future. This historic moment will allow Americans to reflect on the country’s unique legacy of freedom and envision a promising path forward.
Ultimately, President Trump’s extraordinary journey and impact on the nation make this inauguration a defining moment in history. His leadership will leave an indelible mark on the United States and the world.
