#OTD in 2009, three former presidents, one current president, and one president-elect gathered in the Oval Office for a historic moment in White House history. 1/7
Image Credit: White House Photo by Eric Draper
Just days before leaving office, President George W. Bush extended a warm welcome to Jimmy Carter, George H.W. Bush, William J. Clinton, and President-elect Barack Obama. 2/7
The meeting came at the suggestion of President-elect Obama, who had visited President Bush shortly after his election in November 2008. The occasion marked the first time since 1981 that all the living presidents gathered at the White House. 3/7
President Bush shared words of encouragement for the President-elect: “One message that I have, and I think we all share, is that we want you to succeed...And to the extent we can, we look forward to sharing our experiences with you.” 4/7
In response, Obama remarked, “I just want to thank the president for hosting us. This is an extraordinary gathering. All the gentlemen here understand both the pressures and possibilities of this office.” 5/7
“For me to have the opportunity to get advice, good counsel, and fellowship with these individuals is extraordinary and I am grateful to all of them.” Following the exchange, the presidents gathered for a private lunch meeting. 6/7
Learn more about transitions between presidential administrations at the White House in the "Moving Day" episode of our podcast, The #1600Sessions: whitehousehistory.org/1600-sessions/… 7/7
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