Influential Presidential Speeches that Shaped U.S. History

George Washington’s Farewell Address – September 19, 1796

George Washington’s farewell address was not delivered in person; instead, it was distributed through the press. As America’s first president, he set the precedent of a presidential farewell address and established the tradition of serving only two terms. Washington’s words expressed his desire to avoid the pitfalls of factionalism, warning that it could cause unrest and division. He emphasized unity among citizens, highlighting shared values. For many years, the Senate has commemorated his birthday by reading his address aloud.

Monroe Doctrine – December 2, 1823

By 1817, when James Monroe became president, South American countries were striving for independence from Spain. Initially, the U.S. maintained neutrality, recognizing new republics after acquiring Spanish Florida. The 1823 French invasion of Spain fueled concerns over European intervention in the Western Hemisphere. Monroe’s address to Congress established a foreign policy stance against such interference, a doctrine that John F. Kennedy and other leaders referenced during important global events like the Cuban Missile Crisis.

Gettysburg Address – November 19, 1863

President Abraham Lincoln’s brief speech at the dedication of the Soldiers’ National Cemetery in Gettysburg honored Union soldiers who had died during the battle. Lincoln’s words aimed to inspire continued efforts to preserve democracy. The Union’s victory at Gettysburg marked a turning point in the Civil War, contributing to the eventual defeat of the Confederacy. The address continues to be a significant cultural reference and is engraved at the Lincoln Memorial.

FDR’s First Inaugural Address – March 4, 1933

Franklin D. Roosevelt assumed the presidency during the Great Depression, after defeating Herbert Hoover. In his inaugural address, he spoke candidly about the economic challenges, advocating for New Deal policies aimed at recovery. Roosevelt urged citizens not to fearlessly confront economic struggles, famously stating, “the only thing we have to fear is fear itself.” Roosevelt’s policies were viewed favorably by the public, leading to his unprecedented four-term election.

LBJ’s ‘American Promise’ Speech – March 15, 1965

Following the violence of Bloody Sunday in Selma, Alabama, President Lyndon B. Johnson addressed Congress. He urged for the protection of voting rights, condemning the brutality faced by civil rights marchers. Johnson’s speech contributed to the passage of the Voting Rights Act, a significant achievement in the fight for civil rights, emphasizing the need to overcome bigotry and ensure equality for all Americans.

Nixon’s Resignation Speech – August 8, 1974

Amid the Watergate scandal, Richard Nixon’s support diminished significantly. Facing impeachment over his involvement in a cover-up, he chose to resign, becoming the only U.S. president to do so. In a televised address, Nixon expressed his decision to prioritize the nation’s interest over his presidency. The next day, Gerald Ford took office and stated, “Our long national nightmare is over.” Nixon’s resignation remains a historic moment in U.S. politics.