JFKs+Super+Dooper+Inaugural+Address

In 1961 JFK was elected president of the United States of America and then gave his famous inauguration speech. During this time America was facing problems with communist nations. So it was JFK's duty to calm the Americans and imprint the idea that he is there for the better of America.

[|SpeechText 3] [Clip] After watching and listening to this clip, how would you describe his tone? How can tone effect an orators impact on the audience?

"Finally, to those nations who would make themselves our adversary, WE OFFER NOT A PLEDGE BUT A REQUEST: that both sides begin anew the quest for peace, before the dark powers of destruction unleashed by science engulf all humanity in planned or accidental self-destruction. We dare not tempt them with weakness. For only when our arms are sufficient beyond doubt can we be certain beyond doubt that they will never be employed. But neither can two great and powerful groups of nations take comfort from our present course—both sides overburdened by the cost of modern weapons, both rightly alarmed by the steady spread of the deadly atom, yet both racing to alter that uncertain balance of terror that stays the hand of mankind's final war. So let us begin anew—remembering on both sides that civility is not a sign of weakness, and sincerity is always subject to proof. Let us never negotiate out of fear. But let us never fear to negotiate."

1) Why do you think JFK chooses to say WE OFFER NOT A PLEDGE BUT A REQUEST instead of WE REQUEST?

" Let both sides, for the first time, formulate serious and precise proposals for the inspection and control of arms-and bring the absolute power to destroy other nations under the absolute control of all nations. Let both sides seek to invoke the wonders of science instead of its terrors....... Let both sides unite to heed in all corners....." (199)

2) Why did JFK think it was necessary to use a variety of repetition and restatements?

"To those peoples in the huts and villages across the globe struggling to break the bonds of mass misery, we pledge our best efforts to help them help themselves, for whatever period is required-not because the Communists may be doing it, not because we seek their votes, but because it is right." (198)

3) Why does JFK use the word pledge instead of request?

[|The House]