Read the excerpt from Franklin Roosevelt’s Inaugural Address, which was given March 4, 1933, to answer the question.
This is a day of national consecration, and I am certain that my fellow-Americans expect that on my induction into the Presidency I will address them with a candor and a decision which the present situation of our nation impels.
This is preeminently the time to speak the truth, the whole truth, frankly and boldly. Nor need we shrink from honestly facing conditions in our country today. This great nation will endure as it has endured, will revive and will prosper.
So first of all let me assert my firm belief that the only thing we have to fear is fear itself —nameless, unreasoning, unjustified terror which paralyzes needed efforts to convert retreat into advance.
In every dark hour of our national life a leadership of frankness and vigor has met with that understanding and support of the people themselves which is essential to victory. I am convinced that you will again give that support to leadership in these critical days.
In 3–5 sentences, explain the thesis, or main idea, of Roosevelt’s Inaugural Address and evaluate whether Roosevelt supports his thesis effectively. Use specific examples and language from the text to support your ideas.
(4 points)
The main idea of Roosevelt’s Inaugural Address is that the nation is facing a difficult time, but the American people should not let fear overwhelm them. Roosevelt emphasizes the importance of facing the truth and challenges head-on, and expresses confidence in the resilience and strength of the American people. He asserts that fear is the biggest obstacle to progress and that the support of the people is crucial in overcoming the challenges the nation is facing.
Roosevelt effectively supports his thesis by addressing the fears of the American people directly and providing them with a message of hope and confidence. By acknowledging the difficult situation the nation is in, Roosevelt demonstrates his candor and decision-making, as he promised in the beginning of his address. Additionally, he instills a sense of unity among the American people by calling for their support and understanding in these critical times. Overall, by speaking openly and boldly about the challenges ahead and offering reassurance to the American people, Roosevelt effectively supports his thesis in his Inaugural Address.