Fourth inauguration of Franklin D. Roosevelt

Due to austerity measures in effect during World War II, the inauguration was held on the South Portico of the White House, rather than the Capitol. The parade and other festivities were canceled as well. The oath was administered by Chief Justice Harlan F. Stone at 12:03 PM and the subsequent address was one of the shortest on record. This was also the most recent inauguration in which an outgoing vice president swore in his successor, which had previously been the practice. Roosevelt's presidency was, and remains, the longest in American history.

Weather conditions for 12 noon at Washington National Airport, located 3.1 miles (5 km) from the ceremony, were: 36 °F (2 °C), wind 12 mph (19 km/h), and no precipitation.