In Roosevelt’s address he laying out how he wanted to help the American people. First by tackling the immediate need and then by getting the people back to work. He even addresses congress and ask for them to help pass legislation quickly, but also threatens that if they are not on board he will do it without them. His speech was also about action. Things needed to change now and we must not just sit around and discuss them but move forward and make things happen quickly.
Roosevelt goes right to the heart of the American people to get them onboard with his plan. This must have been the first glimmer of hope Americans had since the depression began. Hoover had done nothing to help the property stricken Americans and had even sent an army to evict the veteran bonus marches out of Washington. On Saturday March 4th, 1933 Franklin D Roosevelt gave Americans hope that there was help around the corner and even and end in sight.
In one of history’s most famous quotes Roosevelt says; “The only thing we have to fear is fear itself.” Instead of succumbing to fear and suspicion, Roosevelt’s confidence that the government could help citizens energized New Deal Policies and his presidency, the longest in American History (pg.895).
Americans were desperate for change and Roosevelt’s powerful convincing speech put renewed faith in government to help. As I read his speech I am inspired for hope and change. We find ourselves in a similar economic situation and we have put our faith in our Presidency to help pull us out of our economic mess. We have even looked back at Roosevelt’s presidency to see if we can use some of his changes to change our situation. His speech is very relevant to our troubles now.
I agree with you. This speech is very inspirational and does relate to what is going on in our world today. "Our greatest primary task is to put people to work. This is no unsolvable problem if we face it wisely and courageously." This rings true to what we need now. Today we have so many programs that help people who are out of work, good and bad. I couldn’t even imagine the strain unemployment put on families back then. With the election coming up next year it gives me some points to look for in upcoming debates.
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