Barack Obama became president at noon, even before he was sworn in by Chief Justice John Roberts. The Constitution states that the president’s term begins at noon even without an oath in place. As the clock struck 12, Obama was listening to a performance by Yo-Yo Ma and Itzhak Perlman.

As Obama was sworn in as the first black president of the United States, the significance of the Capitol Building itself, which was built by slaves in the late 18th century, was addressed by most TV commentators. Slaves were responsible for much of the construction.

While dining at the congressional lunch Tuesday afternoon, President Obama said “a part of me is with” Sen. Edward Kennedy, who is reported to have suffered a seizure related to his malignant brain tumor. The Associated Press is reporting that Kennedy is feeling well and will be released Wednesday.

Compiled by Stephen Spector