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The Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies has launched a Web site to provide up-to-date information about the 2009 Presidential Inauguration and related ceremonies along with historical information and photos of inaugurals past.
This Week in Senate History
Photo of Vice President Charles Curtis
August 6, 1971

The Senate and House of Representatives took their first mandatory 30-day summer recess as required by the 1970 Legislative Reorganization Act.

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2008 Session Schedule
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Floor Schedule

Friday, Aug 08, 2008

11:00 a.m.: Convene for a pro forma session.


Previous Meeting

Tuesday, Aug 05, 2008

The Senate convened at 10:00 a.m. for a pro forma session. No record votes were taken.


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Historical Minutes

The United States Senate has inspired thousands of colorful stories. Since the first discussions at the Constitutional Convention in 1787 the “World’s Greatest Deliberative Body” has actively engaged storytellers.


Harry S. Truman at Desk Bonus Marchers Doorkeeper Isaac Bassett Turning Back the Senate Chamber Clock

For more than 30 years, the Senate’s historian has prepared historical narratives to inform senators, staff, constituents, and others who are curious about the traditions, personalities, and legislative landmarks of the Senate. These stories reflect all areas of Senate activity. From the well-known and notorious, to the unusual and even whimsical, they are presented to enlighten, inspire, amuse, and inform. Read collectively, they provide clear impressions about the forces, events, and personalities that have shaped the Senate of the 21st century.

The Historical Minute Essays are divided into seven eras:

Other online features provided by the historical office are constitutional origins and institutional developments of the Senate, highlights from the Senate’s photographic collection, and the Senate’s Oral History Project.


Past Feature Articles

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