A Comparison Of Kennedy And Roosevelt's Inaugural Address
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Every president makes an inaugural speech shortly after being elected. There are always many different topics depending on the events happening in America at that time. The speech is typically inspirational and the new president convinces you that he will be more honest and helpful than the former. All of this is true, but there is typically an important and meaningful theme. John F. Kennedy and Franklin D. Roosevelt delivered their inaugural addresses 28 years apart, but both speeches use rhetoric to convey the same concept that Americans need to help others. FDR gave his inaugural address during the Great Depression, while Americans were unhopeful and uninspired. He stated, “We are stricken by no plague of locusts. Compared with the perils which our forefathers conquered because they believed and were not afraid, we have still much to be thankful for” (23-25). By using a biblical allusion, Roosevelt is trying to find a bright side to the situation. Our ancestors went through a lot of struggles to make this country what it is today. Throughout this whole section, FDR is trying to convince Americans that, in order to enjoy the good times, we must help each other through the rough times.…show more content… At this point, America had gotten through the Great Depression and JFK was focused on bigger issues. Near the beginning of the speech, Kennedy says, “Let every nation know, whether it wishes us well or ill, that we shall pay any price, bear any burden, meet any hardship, support any friend, oppose any foe to assure the survival and success of liberty” (17-19). JFK uses appeal to patriotism to encourage citizens to help people not just in America. We should “Let every nation know” that we will do anything to encourage freedom. Roosevelt encourages citizens to help other Americans, while Kennedy is inspiring people to help the whole