Ronald Reagan's "Evil Empire" Speech
President Ronald Reagan delivered one of the most memorable speeches on March 8th, 1983. The audience of this speech were the members of the National Association of Evangelicals in Orlando, Florida. This speech had taken place when Congress was debating over a "nuclear freeze". There were many topics covered in this speech. These topics inculded anti-abortion legislation, discrimination against the handicapped, prayer in public schools, and of course the Soviet Union represented the good and evil.
Background
President Ronald Reagan was an extraordinary speaker and his communications with the audience allowed him to convey many feelings within the crowd. He also uses humor to win over his audience and the level of comfort he uses when he talks creates originality and a memorable time. President Reagan had earned his reputation as "the Great Communicator." During his speech, he creates an idea in the minds of the audience that warns of the loss of faith in God and the "Evil Empire." He leaves the crowd in awe but also leaves the impression that he has the solution.
Impact
The most memorable quote from President Reagan's speech was the "evil empire" which created one of the most sensational phrases. There were many critics and supporters after the speech was delivered. The supporters clapped and admired the powerful usage of words Reagan used to describe Communism. On the other hand, the critics had accused him of evil and temptation. There's only one problem, in the speech, a line that was forgotten, had talked about how America too has done wrong. Reagan pointed the finger at America, saying, "OUr nation, too, has a legacy of evils with which it must deal. ... For example, the long struggle of minority citizens for equal rights... There is no room for racism, anti-Semitism, or other reforms of ethnic and racial hatred in this country." Even though this speech only angered the Soviet leaders, it showed the rhetorical side of the escalation of the Cold War.
Cartoons
In this political cartoon, it depicts how President Ronald Reagan feels that in his time, you were suppose to follow his ideals and if not then you were thought of as an enemy.