Rhetorical Analysis Of The Space Race Speech By John F. Kennedy

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The Space Race was one of the most influential moments in the 20th century for the United States. During this time, then President John F. Kennedy delivers his message at Rice University Stadium through the visions of logical reasoning, ethics of authority, and the emotional appeal of compare and contrast to appeal to support NASA's and humankind's first ever moon landing. Kennedy begins his speech by referring to a logical perspective of human advances throughout the course of a half-century. In paragraphs 1 and 2, Kennedy claims that in the 50,000 years of recorded history of mankind, human technology has advanced at a rate never before seen. He mentions new discoveries such as nuclear power and airplanes becoming a common staple in public …show more content…

Rice University is known as being one of the most prestigious research institutions nationwide, making it highly likely for the welcoming support of his audience, of Rice University, to appeal their own support on the moon landing. Additionally, in paragraph 5, Kennedy mentions the speech of William Bradford of how great difficulties will result in overcoming them. During this time, citizens were worried of the unknown and the thought of space exploration, but Kennedy acknowledges this and supports the audience of the unknown. During the year 1962, America was in the midst of the Cold War. In addition to this, either side only received power from technological advances. Kennedy uses the present situations of the world to grab emotional appeal and support from his audience through the lens of the Space Race. From paragraphs 6-7, Kennedy claims this event to be one of the greatest adventures of our time, and through the support of his American citizens, they will overcome any hostile subject that stands in their way. He uses contrast to the opposing nations to uplift the American spirit, and similarity because both sides fight for influential