Speeches

After reading FDR’s, Address to Congress and Obama’s Inauguration Speech, I found a lot of similarities and differences between the two as well. After reading FDR’s speech, what popped out to me was the paragraph in which he states “since the beginning of our American history, we have been engaged in change—in a perpetual peaceful revolution- a revolution which goes on steadily, quietly adjusting itself to changing conditions…” I find it ironic he cites change since change is such a major facet of Obama’s campaign and his plans for the country. I noticed that both FDR and Obama cite “unity of purpose” in their speeches. Obama says “On this day we gather because we have chosen hope over fear, unity of purpose over conflict and discord,” in FDR’s he says “our strength is our unity of purpose.” After reading posts on the blog, I agree with what Katie and also noticed that both speeches were given during times of war; and also with what Lauren said about how both speeches leave their audiences with a feeling of hope for the future.