How does FDR’s speech compare to President Wilson’s?
The speeches of President Woodrow Wilson and President Franklin D. Roosevelt are two of the most memorable in American history. Both leaders delivered powerful orations that influenced the course of their respective eras. This article aims to compare and contrast the speeches of these two presidents, highlighting their similarities and differences in style, content, and impact.
Firstly, both Wilson and Roosevelt were known for their eloquence and ability to inspire their audiences. Wilson’s speech, delivered on April 2, 1917, during World War I, was a call to arms that united the nation. He emphasized the importance of American participation in the war, declaring, “The world must be made safe for democracy.” Similarly, Roosevelt’s “Day of Infamy” speech, delivered on December 8, 1941, after the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor, galvanized the nation to enter World War II. He declared, “Yesterday, December 7, 1941—a date which will live in infamy—the United States of America was suddenly and deliberately attacked by naval and air forces of the Empire of Japan.”
In terms of style, both presidents employed a straightforward and passionate tone. Wilson’s speech was marked by his distinctive New England accent and his use of long, flowing sentences. Roosevelt, on the other hand, was known for his distinctive “FDR” voice and his ability to connect with the common man. He often used simple language and anecdotes to make his points, making his speeches accessible to a broad audience.
Content-wise, both speeches focused on the need for American involvement in global affairs. Wilson’s speech emphasized the moral imperative of defending democracy, while Roosevelt’s speech highlighted the necessity of defending American sovereignty. However, there were also notable differences in their approach. Wilson’s speech was more philosophical and idealistic, while Roosevelt’s speech was more pragmatic and focused on immediate action.
The impact of these speeches cannot be overstated. Wilson’s call to arms helped to unite the nation and secure American involvement in World War I. His Fourteen Points speech, delivered in 1918, outlined his vision for a post-war world and laid the groundwork for the establishment of the League of Nations. Roosevelt’s “Day of Infamy” speech, on the other hand, rallied the nation to enter World War II and helped to solidify his leadership during the war years.
In conclusion, while both Wilson and Roosevelt’s speeches shared similarities in style, content, and impact, they also had distinct qualities that set them apart. Wilson’s speech was more philosophical and idealistic, while Roosevelt’s speech was more pragmatic and focused on immediate action. Both speeches, however, played a crucial role in shaping the course of American history during their respective eras.
