January 2009

Barack Obama was inaugurated as the 44th President of the United States, the first African American to hold the office. An estimated 1.8 million people attended the ceremony on the National Mall, the largest audience for any event in Washington DC history.

Michelle Obama became the first Black First Lady of the United States, a Princeton and Harvard Law graduate whose family moved into the White House on January 20, 2009. Her style, grace, and advocacy transformed the role of First Lady and made her one of the most admired women in the world.

Michelle Obama, a Princeton and Harvard Law graduate, became the first Black First Lady of the United States. Her style, advocacy, and public persona transformed the role of First Lady and made her one of the most admired women in the world.

Lee Daniels' Precious, based on the novel Push by Sapphire and starring Gabourey Sidibe and Mo'Nique, won both the Grand Jury Prize and Audience Award at Sundance. Mo'Nique won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress, and the film received nominations for Best Picture and Best Actress.

Lee Daniels' Precious, starring Gabourey Sidibe and Mo'Nique, won both the Grand Jury Prize and Audience Award at Sundance. Mo'Nique won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress and the film received Best Picture and Best Actress nominations.

Michael Steele was elected chairman of the Republican National Committee, becoming the first African American to lead the party of Lincoln in its 155-year history, an election made more striking by coming just days after Barack Obama's inauguration.