Lou Gehrig’s Farewell Speech

Lou Gehrig’s Farewell Speech

Throughout the course of American history, there have been copious amounts of famous speeches, spoken by many different people. From political figures to sports players; these people have provided deep thoughts and great insights about who they are and the world we live in today. Being a sports enthusiast, a memorable speech comes to my mind. Lou Gehrig’s “farewell speech”, given on July 4th, 1939, to more than 62,000 fans at New York City’s Yankee Stadium, has become a cornerstone in the history of baseball in America. Lou Gehrig is considered one of the most under-rated sports players of all time. Gehrig played in the same era with greats like Babe Ruth and Joe DiMaggio. In Fact, Gehrig played on the same team and actually batted behind Ruth and DiMaggio. Gehrig’s nickname is the “Iron Horse,” which came about with Gehrig’s amazing consecutive games played streak. Gehrig played in 2,130 consecutive games, which stood as the consecutive games record until just recently broken by Cal Ripken, Jr. Gehrig died in 1941, at the age of 37. Though many famous speeches have been spoken throughout time, Lou Gehrig’s farewell speech has remained one of the most memorable speeches of all time, due to the way he captivated his fans with the use of rhetoric.

Lou Gehrig was known as a modest man and a “tireless worker,” with remarkable work habits. Gehrig was the first athlete in history to have his jersey retired. Famous number 4 was retired in 1939. Gehrig also holds the record for most grand slams in a career with 23. Gehrig was the first player in history to drive in 500 runs in three consecutive seasons. Gehrig’s farewell speech was definitely directed towards baseball fans; more specifical...

... middle of paper ...

...ou see through examples, all three types of rhetoric are present in Gehrig’s farewell speech.

One thing that is NOT present in this speech is the use of fallacies. Gehrig’s speech was a genuine address, catered to baseball fans all over about the seriousness of Gehrig’s removal from baseball. This speech does not have a weakness, nor does it have a lack of soundness.

Lou Gehrig, one of the most under-rated sports players of all time, exhibits a great speech. It clearly represents the author, as well as the audience and its purpose. The structure of Lou Gehrig’s farewell speech is represented by cause and effect. The speech also appeals to all three forms of rhetoric – Ethos, Pathos, and Logos. This speech will remain a famous speech for ages to come, due to its solid structure, sound attack on all three types of rhetoric, as well as its lack of flaws.