why was there such a long period between election day and inauguration day?

Question

Why is it different now?

Answer 1

Back when the Inauguration Day was March 4th, it usually took a month for the Electoral College to get to Washington, and then the news get back out to the States.
Why - because of horse and buggy - they didn't have the Internet.
And no airlines!

great question

now here's your bonus for 100 points

Who was the last President to be inaugurated March 4th and also the first to be inaugurated January 20th.

(hint - a 20th century President)
(hint - he was the only President elected to four terms)

Answer 2

There are certain procedures after election day that take some time.

Also there is the appeal process for voting discrepancies.

I can't recall the specific date but I do remember that Al Gore had until some date all the way into December to get the recounts and appeal wrapped up had he continued the process. There were deadlines along the way also... some state based then ran into the federal ones.

Answer 3

You have to remember that election day is technically to elect the members of the electorial college. In the past they had to travel long distances, hold their election, then they had to go and send the message to the new president and vice president who had to travel to the capital to be sworn in. And the roads were not always in the best condition and it is getting into winter at that time of year.

Answer 4

Cold medicine and answering questions do not mix, I am getting rid of an answer that made absolutely no sense.

Answer 5

exactly what he said ^