Analyzing Jfk's Speech During The Cold War

The 1960’s to 70’s period was a time of great turmoil in the world, due to the Cold War. President John F. Kennedy, in an attempt to promote democracy, travelled to Berlin to deliver a speech regarding the freedom of the German people. This highly influential speech is seen as a major staple and defense of democracy in an area of the world where democracy had not been widely accepted. This speech is directed to a specific audience and hence it can be interpreted from two different viewpoints - that of the audience it was intended for, and that of the people it excludes. JFK delivers this speech in a way that allows the intended audience to have a positive and inspirational response, while those excluded and of differing political ideologies, have a rather offended and isolated response.

At the height of the Cold War, the capitol of Germany – Berlin, was divided into East and West Berlin. West Berlin was democratic, while East Berlin was Soviet controlled and largely Communist. There was a huge difference in ideologies and a clear split between those that were pro Democratic, and those that were pro Communist. This speech specifically targeted one side of the split – those of a democratic ideology. Because of this clear target audience, those who have a different view on politics are excluded, and will have a largely negative response. Giving this speech in an area where the nations people were highly split prompts the need to show a clear stand in ideology throughout the speech. Therefore the physical and ideological split within Berlin provides context for the ideals within the