[TomGuy]

I remember that well, Reagan didn't have to do anything but show conviction.

Reagan had a lot of behind-the-scenes negotiating going on to free the hostages. After the election, the Iranians knew they would have to deal with Reagan rather than Carter.

[Vigilanteman]

As a college senior on January 20, 1981, I still have a vivid recollection of standing outside a classroom on that historic day with my eyes and those of many fellow students glued to a television set up in the hall.

It was a split screen newscast with the president being sworn in on one side and the plane load of hostages on the tarmac in Tehran waiting for take-off clearance.

As soon as Reagan was sworn-in, the Iranians stepped out of the plane's path waved the wands to signal them to taxi down the runway. It was their final gesture of contempt for Carter.