But for the most part, it was Biden who commanded the spotlight. Here is a selection of front pages from different parts of the world.
Canada’s National Post was one of several newspapers that proclaimed Biden’s proclamation from his inaugural address that “democracy has triumphed.”
It took note of Biden’s healing message, writing that “an extraordinary, sometimes violent, transition of US power came to a peaceful end on Wednesday.”
United Kingdom
The British newspaper The Guardian emphasized the same line, posting a photo of Biden delivering his speech on the front page, while The Daily Telegraph focused on another line – Biden’s call to end “this rude war” that the US has divided.
The British tabloids approached the inauguration with typical zeal, ignoring the lofty rhetoric of Biden’s speech in favor of a swipe at his predecessor. “Don’s gone … Let’s Go Joe!” wrote the Daily Mail. The subway encouraged Biden to “Make America Great Again Now,” once again using Trump’s long-running slogan. The Daily Mirror called Wednesday “A Day of Hope” and the Daily Express said it was “a great moment for the US and Britain.”
Scottish newspaper The National went so far as to offer Trump ‘good advice’ – adding the words ‘you’ve been fired’ as a reference to the former president’s role on the TV series ‘The Apprentice’.
But the most irreverent front page came from the Daily Star, which featured Trump’s face in a photo of the Incredible Hulk.
Ireland
Biden has often spoken of his Irish ancestry, and his victory was marked by front-page headlines across the country. The Irish Examiner called it “A New Day,” while The Irish Times said he “reset the tone” with his address.
Italy
“Welcome Back America” was the message on the cover of La Stampa, one of Italy’s most widely read newspapers. Trump was unpopular in Western Europe, and many EU leaders expressed relief at the start of Biden’s term.
Spain
El Mundo from Spain welcomed Biden with the candid assessment, “There is a lot to be cured in the US”. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said after Biden was sworn in: “Today is a great day … We will work with the US for democracy and the strengthening of fairer, more sustainable and inclusive global governance.”
Australia
Most of Thursday’s newspapers in Australia were printed before Biden was sworn in, so many focused on Trump’s departure – with a pretty clear stance on the outgoing leader. “Don Let the Door Hit You on the Way Out” was the Western Australian’s blunt parting, while tabloid NT News opted for a pun in its equally disdainful farewell.
Nigeria
Hong Kong
The South China Morning Post, a Hong Kong-based daily newspaper for English readers, featured a photo of Biden with his wife, Jill Biden, and the second family waving at the ceremony.
United Arab Emirates
Meanwhile, Gulf Today called Trump a “made-up leader” in front-page coverage of Biden’s inauguration, featuring an image of the 46th president taking the oath.