Rhetorical Analysis Of Alfred M. Green's Civil War Speech

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In the provided passage by Alfred M. Green, initiates in his Civil War speech by stating even though America may have many negative aspects, the speaker acknowledges the positive American ideology. Though, the purpose of this speech was to encourage his intended audience, being African Americans, to fight for their rights that was unacknowledged through the many years of being oppressed through slavery. The speaker acknowledges this main claim by saying the founding fathers have forgotten about their rights since there were many unfair restrictions through laws. However, Alfred provides an empathetic and angry tone since he gives the audience hope as he urges African Americans to fight for the Union army and someday have equality. The speaker …show more content…

Thus, it motivates African Americans to fight the Confederate states which oppressed many African Americans through slavery for many years. Alfred begins his speech by stating the main ideology of America. He states that America is known for their strong patriotic stance and a country of freedom along with “civil and religious toleration” (5) but African Americans are the basis on what America is founded on. Religion is also significant to the argument. America believed in “freedom” (4), therefore, no one should be able to deny the equal rights of African Americans. This part of the argument makes African Americans more desirous to join the war in order to defeat the tyrant system. Although, the main purpose of the speech was to acknowledge the misrepresentation and unfair treatment of African Americans and fighting for the Civil War is a chance for them to get the …show more content…

With the emotional tone the speaker utilizes, he provides logical evidence such as the “immortal Washington” and “Jackson” (10-11). By providing such terms, it motivates African Americans to fight the war because it reveals their patriotism. The descriptions and emotions the speaker used towards the treatments of African Americans set an empathetic but also an angry tone that urges many to fight for the Union army to defeat the tyrant system. This use of such evidence moves African Americans closer to fight the