“Man holds in his mortal hands the power” (Kennedy 1). |
1. Background Support
The President seeks to ensure that the liberty attained by America is retained. |
Inference
Retention of the liberty and freedom attained so far calls for global synergy. It is then the world’s responsibility. |
“The same revolutionary beliefs for which our forebears fought are still at issue” (Kennedy 1). |
2. Background Support
Poverty and the default of freedom of rights are still issues that require the intervention of the government. |
Inference
The American government calls for helping these countries for political reasons. He says it’s for the votes, but it also raises the influence America has on other countries. |
“Few generations have been granted the role of defending freedom” (Kennedy 1). |
3. Background Support
The president refers to the World War in which America had sent its soldiers to defend their freedom and those of their neighbors. |
Inference
The Vietnam War was the epitome of the fight for freedom. The American soldiers were sent to foreign states to help the states. |
Question 1: Author’s Purpose for Writing
The speech was written as a confirmation message to the American citizens that the president had their goodwill in mind, “We are committed today at home and around the world” (Kennedy 1). To the world, President Kennedy made a statement, a stand that would get him allies and foes alike, “This Hemisphere intends to remain the master of its own house” (Kennedy 1).
Question 2: Author’s Bias
President Kennedy showed that he intended to ensure liberal rights around the globe were attained. He wanted to realize freedom in America, his neighbors, and every country that would seek help from his government. President Kennedy stated that the government would not witness the violation of freedom in his country or helpless countries. His presidency was not only for the Americans but the whole world because he appreciated the influence that America had over other nations. Further, the President cited help and inclusivity for all, poor and rich, for all needed by the government. Evidently, he was more biased towards revolutionizing the whole world. His presidency would be for the goodwill of all, both the Americans and their neighbors.
Question 3: Effect of the Author’s Bias
The effect of the President’s speech seems to favor freedom, inclusivity, and unity of states. Though President Kennedy had good intentions in wanting freedom for all, he would be splitting his attention in his administration. The desire for freedom in all nations meant that he would reduce his efficiency in America as the President. He confirmed this when he said that his dream would not be fulfilled soon. Admitting weakness in his speech limits its validity. Also, during that time, the world was investing in nuclear weapons and advanced combat. Calling for peace would invalidate his role as the Chief Commander of the Armed Forces and, in turn, his speech.
Question 4: Similarity to Recent Speech
In his inauguration speech, President Obama insisted on the importance of freedom, which America had enjoyed for years. However, terrorism, corruption, greed, racism, and communism were the evils that his administration would eradicate. He hoped to revolutionize the American people, the government, and the people’s attitudes. He hoped that his administration would show that power lay in the people, their will, and unity to foster peace (Secretary). Like President Kennedy, President Obama called for peace while terrorism was prevalent.
Works Cited
Inauguration Address. Perf. John F. Kennedy. Prod. Columbia Point. Presidential Library and Museum, 1961. Audio. 08 March 2018. <https://www.jfklibrary.org/Research/Research-Aids/Ready-Reference/JFK-Quotations/Inaugural-Address.aspx>.
Secretary, Press. President Barack Obama’s first inauguration speech: Full text. White House. Washington: The White House, 2013. Print. 08 03 2018. <https://www.aol.com/article/news/2017/01/19/president-barack-obamas-first-inauguration-speech-full-text/21657532/>.
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