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    Chicago’s South Side made history today, and the whole world was watching. The grand opening of the Barack Obama Presidential Center drew one of the most extraordinary gatherings of celebrities, dignitaries, and former presidents the city has ever seen — a who’s who of former presidents, dignitaries, and musical performers descending on an invite-only dedication ceremony nearly a decade in the making.

    Former President Barack Obama and Michelle Obama were joined by former Presidents Bill Clinton, George W. Bush, and Joe Biden for the milestone occasion. Every living president and first lady except Donald and Melania Trump was in attendance — a pointed statement in its own right. Oprah Winfrey, Tom Hanks, Steven Spielberg, David Letterman, and Conan O’Brien were also on hand, joined by Malia and Sasha Obama, who watched their father’s emotional remarks from the crowd.

    The performances were nothing short of staggering. Bruce Springsteen, U2’s Bono and The Edge, Christina Aguilera, Common, Jennifer Hudson, John Legend, Marc Anthony, Stevie Wonder, TEMS, and The Roots all took the stage, turning the dedication into something closer to a once-in-a-generation concert event. Eddie Vedder performed with Guitars Over Guns, and John Legend and Common delivered a performance of “Glory” that brought the crowd to its feet.

    The 19-acre, $850 million campus includes a museum featuring digital exhibits on key moments in Obama’s presidency, a basketball court, and a branch of the city’s public library. It opens to the general public on Juneteenth — Friday — a date that felt anything but accidental.

    Take a look at the star-studded sightings from today’s historic opening below.

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