Study Guide: John F. Kennedy's "We Choose to Go to the Moon" Speech

John F. Kennedy's "We Choose to Go to the Moon" speech is one of the most famous speeches in American history. Delivered at Rice University in Houston, Texas, on September 12, 1962, the speech outlined Kennedy's bold vision for space exploration and inspired a generation of Americans.

This study guide provides a detailed analysis of the speech, examining its context, structure, rhetorical devices, and historical significance. It is designed to help students understand and appreciate the speech's enduring power and impact.

The speech was delivered at a time of great tension between the United States and the Soviet Union. The two superpowers were engaged in a space race, each vying to be the first to land a man on the moon. The Soviets had recently launched Sputnik, the first artificial satellite to orbit the Earth, and had followed that up with the successful launch of Yuri Gagarin, the first human in space.

Study Guide for John F. Kennedy's We Choose to Go to the Moon Speech (Course Hero Study Guides)

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Kennedy's speech was intended to rally the American people behind his ambitious goal of landing a man on the moon before the end of the decade. He argued that the space race was more than just a competition between nations; it was a test of the human spirit and a symbol of American technological prowess.

The speech is organized into three main parts:

1. : Kennedy begins by acknowledging the challenges facing the United States in the space race. He notes that the Soviets have a lead in space technology, but he argues that the United States has the resources and the determination to overcome this deficit.
2. Body: Kennedy lays out his vision for space exploration. He argues that the United States should focus on landing a man on the moon before the end of the decade. He also discusses the scientific and technological benefits of space exploration.
3. : Kennedy concludes by urging the American people to embrace his vision. He argues that the space race is a challenge that the United States must meet. He also expresses his belief that space exploration will lead to a better future for all mankind.

Kennedy uses a variety of rhetorical devices to make his speech more persuasive and memorable. These devices include:

• Anaphora: The repetition of a word or phrase at the beginning of successive sentences or phrases. For example, Kennedy repeats the phrase "We choose to go to the moon" three times in the opening paragraph of the speech.
• Antithesis: The contrast of two opposing ideas or images. For example, Kennedy contrasts the "challenges" of the space race with the "promise" of space exploration.
• Metaphor: The comparison of two unlike things without using the words "like" or "as." For example, Kennedy compares the space race to a "race against time."
• Allusion: A reference to a well-known person, place, or event. For example, Kennedy alludes to the Declaration of Independence and the Gettysburg Address in the of the speech.

Kennedy's speech had a profound impact on American history. It helped to rally the American people behind his goal of landing a man on the moon, and it inspired a generation of scientists and engineers to pursue careers in space exploration. The speech is also considered a masterpiece of oratory, and it is still studied and admired today by students of public speaking.

In addition to its impact on American history, Kennedy's speech also had a global impact. It helped to inspire the world to look beyond the Earth and to dream of the possibilities of space exploration. The speech also helped to reduce tensions between the United States and the Soviet Union, and it paved the way for future cooperation in space.

John F. Kennedy's "We Choose to Go to the Moon" speech is a powerful and inspiring speech that has had a lasting impact on American history and the world. The speech is a testament to Kennedy's vision and leadership, and it continues to inspire people to dream big and to strive for the impossible.

Study Guide for John F. Kennedy's We Choose to Go to the Moon Speech (Course Hero Study Guides)

by Course Hero

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	514 KB
Print length	:	160 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE