What Is Considered the Greatest Speech in American History?

When it comes to speeches that have left a lasting impact on American history, there are several that come to mind. From Abraham Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address to Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech, these iconic addresses have become part of the cultural fabric of the United States.

But what is considered the greatest speech in American history? Let’s take a closer look.

One speech that often gets mentioned in this conversation is Franklin D. Roosevelt’s “Day of Infamy” speech, delivered on December 8th, 1941. In this address, Roosevelt addressed the nation the day after Japan’s surprise attack on Pearl Harbor, which led to the United States entering World War II. The speech begins with a powerful and memorable line:

“Yesterday, December 7th, 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.”

The rest of the speech is just as impactful, as Roosevelt outlines the events leading up to the attack and declares war on Japan.

Another contender for greatest American speech is John F. Kennedy’s inaugural address, given on January 20th, 1961. This speech is perhaps best known for its famous line:

“Ask not what your country can do for you – ask what you can do for your country.”

This call to action has become one of Kennedy’s most enduring legacies, inspiring generations of Americans to serve their communities and their country.

Of course, no discussion of great American speeches would be complete without mentioning Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” address. Given during the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom on August 28th, 1963, King’s speech called for racial equality and an end to discrimination against African Americans. The speech includes several powerful lines that have become ingrained in American culture, such as:

  • “I have a dream that one day this nation will rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed: ‘We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal.'”
  • “Let freedom ring from the prodigious hilltops of New Hampshire. “
  • “Free at last!

    Free at last! Thank God Almighty, we are free at last! “

King’s words continue to inspire people around the world to fight for equality and justice.

In conclusion, there are many speeches in American history that could be considered the greatest. Each of these addresses has had a profound impact on our country and our culture, and they continue to be studied and celebrated today. Whether it’s Roosevelt’s call to arms, Kennedy’s call to service, or King’s call for equality, these speeches remind us of the power of words and the importance of standing up for what we believe in.