John F. Kennedy was the 35th president of the United States. He delivered a great speech on January 20, 1961 after he was sworn into office. His speech was very powerful and quotes are still remembered till this day. His speech had many purposes but most importantly he got positive recognition. The speech was written to encourage the American people to get involved with their country. The speech basically reassured voters that they made the right choice and informed the country that they were going to see some changes. John F Kennedy at the beginning of the speech made it sound like because it was our moral responsibility that we should go to war. He said, “We observe today not a victory of a party but a celebration of freedom, symbolizing and end as well as a beginning, signifying a renewal as well as change.” (Kennedy, 1961) Statements such as, “If a free society cannot help the many who are poor, it cannot save the few who are rich.” (Kennedy, 1961), demonstrate how Kennedy appealed to the citizens by using reason. The use of logos in his speech was minimal compared to the use of pathos, and ethos. But in the few areas where it is evident it is used so well that even the minute usage of it made it better speech. JFK used common sense and common knowledge and the use of it in writing strengthens speeches and better establishes the writer. The Kennedy’s were a well-known political family with high morals and good character. So it was normal in john F Kennedy’s inaugural speech was signs culture.
I believe he appealed to the audience with moral characteristics and sense of education. I think his moral prospective became clear as he discussed God and doing what he believed was the right thing. “With a good conscience our only sure reward, with history the final judge of our deeds, let us go forth and to lead the lead we love, asking His blessing and His help, but knowing here on earth God’s work must truly be our own”. (Kennedy 1961) When he started talking about the Vietnam War he gave the most powerful quote. “Ask not what your country can do for you but ask what you can do for your country.” (Kennedy 1961) this quote is so powerful because it uses one of the strongest subjects of emotion, the United States, with noble responsibilities. This speech speaks to every person who lives in America on a personal level. It is the use of these expressions which JFK passionately spoke in 1961 that made his speech very memorable, emotional, and meaningful. Its use of expressive and descriptive language makes it a meaningful speech. Kennedy uses his speech to communicate his commitment to the American public as well as the expected changes.