Barack Obama took oath of office in a private ceremony on Sunday (January 20 2013) at the White House in Washington for his second term as US president. The state held public parades on Monday. Above: A woman listens on the National Mall during the inauguration ceremony for Obama and vice-president Joe Biden in Washington on Monday (January 21 2013). Picture: Eric Thayer/Reuters

Obama (51) recites his oath of office as First Lady Michelle Obama looks on during swearing-in ceremonies in Washington. Obama is America’s 44th president. Picture: Jim Bourg/Reuters

A spectator holds up a poster depicting Barack and Michelle Obama during the inaugural parade. Picture: Jason Reed/Reuters

The US Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts administers the oath of office to Obama as about 800 000 people look on. Picture: Jason Reed/Reuters

Sasha Obama dons a Kate Spade coat and dress, while older sister Malia wears a J Crew ensemble. Michelle Obama wore a navy Thom Browne coat and dress, and belt from J Crew. Picture: Kevin Lamarque/Reuters

The first family applauds and looks on as the president delivers his inaugural address. Picture: Jason Reed/Reuters

Multiple award winner Beyoncé Knowles, accompanied by the US Marine Band, sang the US anthem. Obama greets the singer after her performance. Picture: Win McNamee/Pool/Reuters

Kelly Clarkson sings My Country ’Tis of Thee during the swearing-in ceremony. Clarkson tweeted: “What an honour to be a part of history! Obama’s presence was powerful and his words unforgettable. It’s a proud day for America!” Picture: Jim Bourg/Reuters

Former president Bill Clinton (left) shakes hands with former president Jimmy Carter. Picture: Brian Snyder/Reuters

Members of the Marine Corps march in the president’s inaugural parade during the 57th presidential inauguration. Picture: Jose Luis Magana/AP

Obama and the First Lady walk and wave after emerging from the presidential limousine during the walkabout down Pennsylvania Avenue to the White House. Picture: Larry Downing/Reuters

Singer Jennifer Hudson performed Al Green’s Let’s Stay Together at the 2013 Commander-in-Chief’s Inaugural Ball for the couple’s first dance. Picture: Shannon Stapleton/Reuters

First Lady Michelle, wearing a ruby-coloured chiffon and velvet gown by Jason Wu, dances with Barack Obama. Picture: Pablo Martinez Monsivais/Reuters

Singer Alicia Keys put a twist on the lyrics from her hit Girl on Fire to Obama’s on Fire. Picture: Shannon Stapleton/Reuters

Mexican rock band Mana performs at the inaugural ball. Picture: Shannon Stapleton/Reuters