Essay On Jfk Inaugural Address

767 Words4 Pages

On January 20, 1961, John F. Kennedy gave his inaugural address to the public. His presidency has left an immense impact on the United States, which is shown through the three sources given. These sources, “ Inaugural Address, January 20, 1961”, “Inside Kennedy’s Inauguration, 50 Years On”, and the “Inauguration of John F. Kennedy”, are able to effectively convey the legacy of John F. Kennedy through diction and the audience’s mood. However, their styles differ when comparing the authors’ tones. John F. Kennedy is able to capture the audience’s attention through the use of diction. In his speech, he uses the word “we” and “us” to show a united front between the president and the citizens of the United States. Throughout the speech, he …show more content…

“Let every nation know, whether it wishes us well or ill, that we shall pay any price, bear any burden, meet any hardship, support any friend, oppose any foe to assure the survival and the success of liberty” (Kennedy 70). By announcing this to the audience, he is able to create an atmosphere for the nation where there is peace and security. “Inside Kennedy’s Inauguration, 50 Years On”, is able to bring a sense of pride and dignity to the audience. “‘What’s the best inaugural you’ve been to?’ he asked. ‘The one we’re going to tomorrow,’ said Rep. Charles Buckley of New York” (Clift, 75). Prior to Kennedy giving his address to the public, Buckley was certain that his address would be the best address he has/will have been to. This shows that Kennedy’s character as a benevolent leader and a phenomenal president was already showing. The picture of the inauguration, “Inauguration of John F. Kennedy” is able to captivate the audience since there are a lot of significant figures that are portrayed in the picture, such as former president Harry Truman. The audience feels a sense of dignity since they see some of the most important people in the United States captivated in one