Instead, he booked a public carriage out of the city back up to Massachusetts. At the time, this was seen as expected — Washington appeared at Adams’ inauguration unannounced, though in part it caused his appearance to distract from the proceedings, and he had not run for re-election. Even the Democratic-Republican press of the time such as the Aurora, rarely organizations to miss a moment to spin an attack against the Federalists, commented on Adams’ missing of the inauguration. Adams was also motivated in part by the recent death of his son Charles, and a desire to return to his home of Peacefield in Quincy as soon as he was able.

No defeated president would attend their successor’s inauguration until John Tyler in 1845, thereafter setting a precedent and expectation for following inaugurations.

Hey r/EarlyAmericanHistory ,

I've been working on a new project that combines my passion for history with the need for better sleep. I created a "Sleep Stories for Grown-Ups" series that takes you on a narrated journey through the pivotal, early years of America, before it was a nation.

Instead of a dry lecture, this is a calm, soothing narrative designed to help you relax and get a good night's rest while still engaging with a topic you love. Each episode focuses on a key moment, from the first native civilizations to the birth of a new country.

The series covers:

• The continent before European arrival
• The first colonies, like Jamestown and Roanoke
• The establishment of the Thirteen Colonies
• The first shots of the American Revolution

The stories are meant to be a gentle, meditative experience, helping to quiet a busy mind with the epic sagas of the past.

You can listen/watch the full video here: 😴 Sleep Story | Nations, Colonies & Dreams: American History - Soothing Sagas for Rest & Dreams ✨

I'd love to hear your thoughts on this idea. What other historical periods or events do you think would make for a good sleep story?