Inauguration Day: US gets its 46th President Joe Biden and 49th Vice President Kamala Harris; in pics

Joe Biden was sworn in as the 46th President of the United States on January 20 at a historic inaugural ceremony, pledging to unite the country and calling on Americans to end the "uncivil war" that has fractured the deeply polarised nation. Kamala Harris was sworn in as America's first woman Vice President in a time-honoured ceremony on the steps of the US Capitol, amidst unprecedented security following the January 6 mob attack in Washington DC by supporters of former president Donald Trump.

In his first speech as president, Joe Biden addressed his "fellow Americans" who may view the future with fear and trepidation -- but called on them not to turn inwards in difficult times. "We must end this uncivil war that pits red against blue, rural versus -- rural versus urban, conservative versus liberal," the 78-year-old Democrat said after becoming the oldest US president.

Kamala Harris, the daughter of an Indian immigrant from Chennai, scripted history by becoming the first-ever woman Vice President of the United States. The 56-year-old former Senator is also the first Black and first South Asian American vice president.

Joe Biden pledged to repair America's global alliances, which suffered during his predecessor Trump's four-year regime. "This is America's day. This is democracy's day. A day in history and hope, of renewal and resolve," he said.

"Today, we celebrate the triumph not of a candidate, but of a cause. The cause of democracy. The people, the will of the people has been heard and the will of the people has been heeded," Joe Biden said.

Joe Biden pointed to Kamala Harris being sworn in as vice-president as an indication of how much positive change the nation can achieve. "Don't tell me things can't change," Biden said.

 

In a message to the international community, Joe Biden said that he would rebuild the alliances frayed over the past four years. "We can make America once again the leading force of good in the world."

In his speech that lasted for 21 minutes, Joe Biden praised Americans for rising to the challenge and reclaiming democracy.

Joe Biden mentioned the attempt to undo it at that exact location two weeks ago, and renewed his campaign goals of overcoming the pandemic, bringing racial justice and fighting climate change, referring to the violent attack on the US Capitol by supporters of Trump on January 6.

Former president Barack Obama and his wife Michelle arrive for the 59th Presidential Inauguration at the US Capitol for Joe Biden in Washington.

Former President George W Bush and his wife Laura arrive for the 59th Presidential Inauguration at the US Capitol for Joe Biden in Washington.

Lady Gaga sings the National Anthem during the 59th Presidential Inauguration at the US Capitol in Washington.

People at the Inauguration of Joe Biden as the 46th President of the United States.

Joe Biden also criticised those who have stoked anger and division, and asked those who opposed him to "hear me out." He called out those who lie for political power and profit. "There is truth, and there are lies," he added.