As the opening act of Obama’s fledgling presidency unfolded, the country — and the
world — kept a close eye on the 44th
president’s every important move.

Obama reassures Americans that the emerging swine flu pandemic is “not a cause for alarm.” U.S. health authorities declare a public-health emergency, and the news sends overseas stock markets tumbling. Obama promises that federal health authorities will provide regular updates. In remarks to the National Academy of Sciences, Obama also unveils a major initiative to fund research and develop the next generation of scientists.