(Wednesday, January 20, 1993, 11:59 a.m. EST) — Former Governor William “Bill” Jefferson Clinton of Arkansas took the oath of office today as the 42nd president of the United States at the West Front of the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C.

Clinton, a Democrat, succeeded President George H.W. Bush, ending a 12-year era of Republican rule at the White House.

Just 15 minutes earlier, at 11:44 a.m. EST, former U.S. Senator Albert “Al” Arnold Gore Jr. of Tennessee was sworn in as the 45th vice president of the United States, succeeding Vice President Dan Quayle.

Video: 'The 1993 Presidential Inaugural Ball Compilation'

The Clinton-Gore ticket had defeated Bush-Quayle, Republicans seeking a second term in the 1992 United States presidential election, by 370-168 votes in the Electoral College.

“A new season of American renewal has begun,” Clinton said in a brief but moving inaugural address. “This is our time,” he said. “Let us embrace it.”

Following the inauguration, former President Bush flew by helicopter to Andrews Air Force Base for a flight home to Houston.

After lunch, Clinton and his wife, Hilary, led the traditional inaugural parade down Pennsylvania Avenue. After the parade, the new president, vice president, and their families attended the 11 official inaugural balls held in their honor.