Rhetorical Analysis Of John F. Kennedy's Inauguration Speech

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On January 20th 1961, John F. Kennedy delivered his inauguration speech to thousands of Americans after being sworn into office. Not only did Kennedy’s speech capture the attention of the country, it was so powerful that quotes from the dialogue are still remembered today as one of the most moving speeches to be given. Through different alliterations and gestures, the speech inspired the country to have hope for it’s future as well as realizing the importance of our country. Looking over a crowd filled with over thousands of people during a snowy afternoon, Kennedy projected a voice filled with vigorous ambition and youthfulness; catching the attention of the country. During his preparation for the big moment, Kennedy desperately wanted to inspire his nation; sending the message overseas to those in the Cold war, ultimately hoping for peace. What really made his speech great were the rhetorical devices, syntax, and diction that he used. He begins the speech by addressing his recognition of his audience. Furthermore, Kennedy kept his speech brief by using small paragraphs. Ultimately, by using small paragraphs Kennedy was able to keep to attention of
By speaking often of the world-wide suffering, as well as the ever present the threat of nuclear annihilation which really brings out the feeling of fear. Although these emotions are brought out, Kennedy had advised his audience to be “unwilling to witness or permit the slow undoing of human rights to which this nation has always been committed, and to which [we] are committed today at home and around the world.” In other words, Kennedy advised the people of America to never stop fighting for human rights, commit to being a good citizen, and have the morality and passion to keep the progression of human rights going. By this being said, a variety of different commands in being a good citizen are being

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