On This Day In History - Reagan Inauguration January 20 1981

Ronald Reagan became the 40th president of the United States of America after being inaugurated on January 20 1981. This signaled a significant change in the attitude and direction of the country’s international stance, symbolized by the almost simultaneous release of the American hostages held in Iran. After being held in captivity for 444 days by Iranian revolutionaries, 52 Americans were released to American personnel at the moment Reagan completed his inauguration speech.

There are many theories about the timing of the hostage release regarding who was responsible and the possible connection to the 1980 presidential election. Nevertheless, it was clear to the world on this day that America was standing up straight and strong after the submissive posture of the Carter administration.