Rhetorical Analysis Of Obama Speech

Introduction Hook: I never knew that one day, one idea could have such a big impact. That one thing could change the history, set up the rest of the country to follow suit with this specific topic, and things that need a change in general.

Background: Over 50 years ago, on March 7, 1965, now known as bloody Sunday, segregation was still prevalent. At the time it was not allowed for blacks to vote at the time. Martin Luther King then lead his followers to a peaceful march, a protest for equal rights, that landed them on a historical bridge. This march helped encourage the voting rights act, and to help the civil rights keep moving forward.

Thesis: In his speech, Obama establishes a rhetorical situation with his of exigence, audience, purpose, and different rhetorical appeals and devices.

Rhetorical Situation
Exigence
Answer: Obama went to Alabama to speak at the historical site where the Selma marches took place 50 years prior, on March 25th, 1965.

Quote: “There are places, and moments in America where this nation’s destiny has been decided….. Selma is such a place….. We gather here to celebrate them.” (Obama, 2015, p.1)

Explanation:
Obama clearly states throughout his speech that he is here to celebrate America and Selma. A way to say look how far we have come. He feels that this was a stepping stone, a big moment in history that he admires.

Audience
Answer:
Obama talks to all of America, and the whole world hears. He is talking to America, but he is