LAD/Blog #34: FDR's First Inaugural



FDR begins his speech by stating his desire to be truthful nd open about the condition of the country. The Great Depression has destroyed the morale and lives of millions of Americans, whom he tries to comfort with his famous quote, “the only thing we have to fear is fear itself”. It places reassurance in their hearts that he will lead them in this dark period of time. His words are very comforting, as he acknowledges the pain materialism brings, for it has been tied to happiness for too long. The public should develop gratitude for everything they have, and FDR offers solutions to this disaster, like safeguards and redistribution.

FDR and Abraham Lincoln have similar undertones in their inaugural addresses because just like how FDR is dealing with the Great Depression, Lincoln has to manage the growing divide between the North and South, both leaving great strain on the country.

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