Descriptive of various types of speeches that have objectives of being instructive, challenging, or inspiring: Invoking a spirit of both history and patriotism, inaugurative addresses have served to reaffirm the liberties and freedoms that mark the remarkable system of American government.

Many memorable and inspiring Presidential passages have originated from inaugurative presentations and among the best known are the following:

• George Washington's pledge in 1789 to protect the new nation's "liberties and freedoms" under "a government instituted by themselves."
• Abraham Lincoln's plea to a nation divided by Civil War to heal "with malice toward none, with charity toward all."
• Franklin D. Roosevelt's declaration "that the only thing we have to fear is fear itself."
• John F. Kennedy's exhortation to "ask not what your country can do for you—ask what you can do for your country."
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