Rhetorical Analysis Of President Franklin D. Roosevelt's Speech

The author of this speech was President Franklin D. Roosevelt. This speech was the president’s address to the nation in reaction to Japan’s attack on Pearl Harbor. The president was arguing in favor of declaring war against Japan based on what had occurred previously on an American Navy base. The president stated that “I believe that I interpret the will of the Congress and of the people when I assert that we will not only defend ourselves to the uttermost, but will make it very certain that this form of treachery shall never again endanger us.”(Roosevelt) The president was able to rally the nation because of his ability to accentuate our opponents lack of character, while simultaneously ensuring our victory. The reason that the argument was effective was because the president was able to ensure that the people realized how unforgivable the element of

The president stated “No matter how long it may take us to overcome this premeditated invasion, the American people in their righteous might will win through to absolute victory.” (Roosevelt) He knew that when speaking to the crowd before him that playing to their ego was the most appropriate route, which proved to be true. In the social climate that they were in during this period it was the pest possible decision to ensure the desired outcome. Another reason that the argument was effective was due to the president being able to accentuate the lack of morals in our opponent. He was able to show the crowd how many different areas they had wronged, and pointed out that the U.S. had received a letter just one hour afterwards that had no hint of an attack within it. He stated “Japan has, therefore, undertaken a surprise offensive extending throughout the Pacific area. The facts of yesterday and today speak for themselves.” (Roosevelt) Which pushed the American people to a decision, because what would stop it from happening