Donald Trump sworn in as the 45th President of the United States of America

Business mogul and former reality TV star, Donald Trump has officially been sworn in as the 45th president of the United States of America on Friday January, 20, taking over from Democrat Barack Obama.

 

The inauguration which drew crowds to the nation's capital was attended by almost every living former president, including Jimmy Carter, George W. Bush, Bill Clinton and his wife, Hillary Clinton, who lost to Trump in last November presidential election, except 92-year-old George H W Bush, who was hospitalised this week with pneumonia. But more than 60 House Democrats refused to attend the event.

Trump placed his hand on two Bibles, one used by his family and another used for President Abraham Lincoln's inauguration, as him and Vice President Mike Pence were sworn in by Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts.

Trump in his first speech as US president, told Americans that this was "their celebration" and promised he would work tirelessly for every American, vowing to put "America first." 

In a 16-minute address, Trump promised to return power to the people.

"From this day forward, a new vision will govern our land. From this day forward, it's going to be America First," Trump said.

He also called on Americans to "think big and dream even bigger."

"Together we will make America strong again, we will make America strong again, we will make America wealthy again," he said.

"We will make America proud again. We will make America safe again and, yes, together we will be make America great again."

Immediately after his swearing in, Trump embraced members of his family and waved to the crowds along the National Mall. 

Following his inauguration as US president, Trump became the oldest person to be sworn in as president.

Protesters burn rubbish bins and newspaper machine in downtown Washington. Picture: Jack Gillum/AP PhotoSource:AP

Meanwhile, a related incident just few meters away from the inauguration venue, about 100 protesters smashed windows of downtown businesses as they registered their rage against the incoming president and were sprayed with pepper spray by police in a chaotic confrontation.