This presentation was effective because President Kennedy was able to communicate his feelings and ideas to the public openly. His opening tone was warm and this endeared him to the audience. His voice, body expressions and reassuring smile made Americans have confidence in his ability as their new leader. This made it easy for him to strike a strong rapport with all dignitaries who had attended the ceremony.
The President was humble in victory and this showed that he was ready to work with all people in his quest to build a united nation. He showed that his Presidency was going to set high standards of leadership because he was ready to be judged more by his performance in office rather than mere rhetoric (Kennedy). The speech revealed the strong charisma which President Kennedy was famous for, which was just one of his many admirable traits.
He was passionate about human rights, justice, equality for all and freedom; ideals which are traditionally associated with the US as a nation. The inauguration speech was a testimony to the fact that President Kennedy’s administration was willing to practice these ideals to make America strong and united. He showed his willingness to make America more progressive economically, socially and culturally (Kennedy).
This inaugural address showed his traits as a statesman who was willing to transcend racial, ideological, cultural and religious barriers to reach out to leaders of other states. He revealed his own selfless virtues as a leader who was willing to accommodate dissenting views in his own country. His words offered encouragement to people from all different backgrounds to work hard to improve their own welfare in society.
President John F. Kennedy’s inauguration address came at a critical point in the history of the U.S as a nation.This speech showed that he had a lot of enthusiasm in his role as the country’s new leader which made America proud as a nation. He was an inspiring leader who was in touch with feelings and aspirations of what fellow citizens in his country wanted. President Kennedy came to office at the height of the Cold War between U.S.A and the then, U.S.S.R.
The two super powers were engaged in a battle to dominate global affairs through their capitalist and communist political ideologies, respectively (Kennedy). When he assumed office, President Kennedy faced many challenges as a leader which seemed insurmountable at the time. Through his words, he managed to uplift the morale and pride of his fellow Americans, who were going through tough political times.
Historically, President Kennedy is regarded as one of the best leaders that served America. His inaugural address portrayed him as a leader who was not afraid to make sacrifices for the benefit of all Americans. He proved that he was ready to use his wisdom to steer the country to greater heights both economically and socially.
President Kennedy’s address showed that he was committed to the welfare of his people; a trait which many modern political leaders do not have (Kennedy). He had defeated his challenger in the election by a very narrow margin yet his win proved pivotal in America’s history. His presidency was a calming influence to a nation which was becoming restless about the intentions of U.S.S.R regarding its support for Fidel Castro of Cuba.
Works Cited
Kennedy, John F. U.S. Presidential Inaugural Address. You Tube, 1961. Speech.