This last week before Spring Break, we’re batting clean-up: writing and peer reviewing a timed essay based on our group discussions and your individual analysis of JFK’s April 1962 steel price press conference. If you’re a junior, you’ll write and turn in your essay in class on Monday, then conduct a detailed peer review of work during class on Tuesday (sophomores will write during class on Thursday and conduct a detailed peer review on Friday). If you have accommodations, you’ll write during our hour-long lunch on Monday (juniors) or Thursday (sophomores). Beyond this, we’ll be kicking off another group reading book, The Accommodation, written by local journalist Jim Schutze.
This Week’s Assignments
As stated above, you’ll write your timed essay during the first class of this week, and turn in both your outline and your essay to this week’s timed writing Google form. You’ll also post your timed essay below as a comment on this blog. As a reminder, you’ll need to keep your camera on during all timed essays.
Then, during the second class of this week, you’ll review the AP Language rhetorical analysis rubric and, then click through and review and attempt to score these released student sample essays for this prompt. When you’re done, you’ll review our standing class peer review sheet and, then, go into the comment thread, below, select an essay that hasn’t received a comment yet, hit reply and identify yourself, and, then, provide one of your peers with detailed feedback on their work by completing — well and thoroughly — all the questions on the peer review sheet. You will be graded on your peer feedback here on the blog, so do your best-possible job.
Beyond this, you’ll start reading our new class reading book, The Accommodation: The Politics of Race in an American City by longtime Dallas journalist Jim Schutze. Long out of print, this book — originally published in February 1987 and immediately purchased and dumped or burned by its opponents, goes a long way toward answering questions you likely have about why Dallas is so different north and south of the Trinity River. It’s such a compelling read that a new publisher is re-releasing it this fall, a development that has drawn national attention, as you can see from this CBS News report. (Note: The PDF I’m supplying you here is a bootleg that circulated once the book went out of print, and so many copies had been destroyed. Taken from an old printer’s galley, it has a few typos, but that in no way diminishes the importance of the story or the quality of Schutze’s writing.)
By Sunday evening, 3.21 (juniors)/3.24 (sophomores), you’ll need to complete the first 58 pages — Chapters 1-10 — of the book, and come ready to discuss what you’ve read in a whole-class seminar. It’s a fascinating read. We’ll have lots to talk about 0ver the next month or so — and we’ll talk a lot in preparation for a Zoom live visit with the writer.
See you in class!
The youngest President in history, John F. Kennedy, made a striking speech denouncing the steel companies of America. On April 10th 1962, JFK addressed the 3.5 percent increase in steel prices because he believed it to be harmful to the reconstruction of the United States. The president castigated the growing steel corporations by effectively implementing credible sources, repeating the importance of this change, and relating to the American people with references to their hardships.
As the president and a man who holds the most powerful position in the United States government, President Kennedy has sources which add to his credibility. In his speech he is convincing and reprimanding the steel price increase but he needs a valid argument to effectively convince the people who make those decisions. The president references his trusted secretary and in doing so brings up a valid point for his argument, “Secretary McNamara* informed me… an estimated one billion dollars to the cost of our defenses, at a time when every dollar is needed…” In this claim Kennedy addresses the issues that the rapid increase in steel would cause, one being the cost of defending our country would escalate to a dangerously high amount and would “ surely handicap our efforts to induce other industries and unions”. With the support of government officials his argument increases in credibility and trust from the American people.
In addition to using his credibility, Kennedy repeatedly remarks on the changes that the prices of steel would have on the rest of the American economy using facts. The president first states “cost of steel is imitated by the rest of the industry, instead of rescinded…” He believes that the increase of prices is unfair and it is clear that change needs to be made. The american economy was in a recession, therefore no major changes such as the ones the steel companies have made could happen.Kennedy’s strong aggression towards these changes can be supported by proven statistics and events. For example Kennedy quotes “ the Acting Commissioner of the Bureau of Labor Statistics informed me …Employment costs per unit of steel output in 1961 were essentially the same as they were in 1958.” He later emphasizes his use of this statement by stating “a hundred thousand steelworkers thrown out of work in the last three years.” Essentially the prices of steel do not need to increase in order to produce a profit, still the companies increased their prices and caused one hundred thousand workers to lose their job. This fact radiates the injustice and corrupt ways that these companies have functioned for the past few years.
Later on his argument concludes with his passion to fix the wrongs and help the american people. Accordingly,he addressed that steel prices would “…,it would increase the cost of homes, autos, appliances, and 25 most other items for every American family.” This conference and Kennedy’s words are especially in the American recession. Kennedy knew this and he used his passion to convey that he would continue to hold his ground for the sake of the American people. He does so by saying “to protect the public interest.”, “ American people have a right to expect in return for that freedom”, and “ interests of 185 million Americans.” With the fear of oncoming war and crisis across the globe the last thing the president intends is for his citizens to feel unsure about their own country’s state.
In closing, Former President John F. Kennedy wanted to convey to steel companies that he wants change and that the elimination of the steel prices increase is vital for the livelihood of the american people. He does so by including credible sources as support, emphasizing the change that has occurred, and acknowledging the losses the citizens have experienced.
Hello, Lily. YOur thesis did in fact clearly state the argument. It responded to the prompt and you clearly stated your claims. Your introduction was clear and concise and definitely set up your argument by giving context. YOur first and second topic sentence were clear and correlated with your thesis, but the third one was not so clear. You included relevant evidence for each of your body paragraphs and integrated them correctly for the most part. In the first body aragraph you inlcuded the quotes inside the ending punctuation. For your first body paragraph, I would add a little more commentary on how referencing officials established credibility. You simply stated that it did rather than explaining how it builds trust within the audience. It felt somewhat limited. The second body paragraph was pretty good, but the topic sentence could have been more sophisticated in terms of wording. The third body paragraph could also be more sophisticated. It seemed to be gramatically incorrect at times and wasn’t necessarily as coherrent as it could have been. As for the conclusion, you did clearly restate the thesis and answer the prompt. Overall, your essay was pretty good. You inlcuded sufficient evidence and relevant commentary. It was also very organized. Overall, I would give you a 4/6.
Times are changing and people are changing, when something becomes unnecessary it drops off the face of the earth and that seems to be what is happening to the USPS. Sometimes we have to ask ourselves, is it worth fixing, well when it comes to the USPS I think the answer is no. From 2000 to 2009 the amount of mail shipped out has dropped drastically, the need for the USPS has declined drastically, and the cost to save the USPS is greater than it’s worth. Things that are no longer needed will fail, in other words it is pointless to resurrect something that is no longer crucial .
The amount of mail shipped from 2006 (the most mail shipped out between 2000 and 2009) and 2009 has decreased by about 40 billion (pieces of mail). This should show us that our country has a declining necessity for the USPS. You shouldn’t put extra effort into something that has the increasingly more obvious and imminent fate of falling into irrelevance. It is a waste of time and resources that will most definitely go largely unappreciated, especially in this new age of technology.
In “Postal Services Expected to Announce ‘Significant Changes.’ “ it says that in the 2009 fiscal year the postal service had a 13% drop in mail volume which is more than double of any previous decline resulting in a $3.8 BILLION loss. Again like i said before this is clearly a sinking ship! Why try to slow its inevitable demise? In order to get back their losses they planned to end Saturday deliveries, have longer delivery times, and increase postage stamp prices. The USPS plans to save themselves by decreasing the quality of their services, this is not a ship worth saving.
It can be argued that rebranded could save the USPS, I say that for the USPS to be considered useful again it has to be rebranded to the point where it no longer resembles the organization it once was, which is again… pointless.
In conclusion the USPS has no demand, has declining usefulness, and is pointless to salvage. I will not deny that the USPS has changed communication forever, however i will say that we are in the midst of a new communication revolution. Times change and organizations rise and fall, it is time for the USPS to fall.
Sam, I am very confused about what this is supposed to be
Throughout our 35th President’s term, economic recession and growth was one of his top priorities. As the economic crisis in 1962 struck, Kennedy made the responsible but difficult decision of addressing the antagonist, who in this case were the large steel companies, on behalf of the American people. JFK, who had had two years of experience as the President under his wing, gave this speech with the full intention of helping the middle and lower classes American citizens who were mostly affected by this raise of prices. With the Vietnamese War happening right under our noses, financial distress was seen by large steel companies and the advantage was theirs. By raising steel prices by 3.5%, the companies were asking too much of the American people. JFK being the free thinking & truthful man that he was, took up for his citizens. The press conference took place on April 2nd, 1962 in Washington D.C and will always be remembered as one of the boldest decisions Kennedy made throughout his term. With the intentions of portraying his ideas Kennedy, created a speech that spoke to all. More specifically, Kennedy uses factual, relevant data correlating with the time period, inclusivity with repetition of the word “we,” and ands a heavy comparison of other large corporations during this time to the one of the steel companies.
Kennedy was in a difficult position. How do you convince and prove to the others watching to stand on your side of one of the most important economic issues he had faced since his election?
He did just that using hard, cold facts to persuade the audience that this was a crisis for all of America, not just the lower class. By giving the audience concrete data of both how much steel prices have risen, “increasing… by some 6 dollars a ton,” as well as giving, in numbers, the result this rise has on Americans, showing “utter contempt for the interests of 185 million Americans,” the audience can find the severity of the situation. Backing these ideas up not only resents how much of a greater impact this will have on the people, but also appeal to all because it proves how correct his ideas are. Using this tactic JFK sent himself up so others could see him as a reliable figure of safety and security.
This speech was given on behalf of the entire population of Americans, Kennedy was just the leader going into battle. Mr. President wants to take this crisis very seriously, therefore he used the word “we” when speaking about citizens. This was now his benefit, because when asking that action be taken he included himself in this cry for help. “[W]hen we are confronted with grave crises in Berlin and Southeast Asia, when we are devoting our energies to economic recovery and stability, when we are asking Reservists to leave their homes and families for months on end, and servicemen to risk their lives,” we are able to see just how detrimental steel prices rising is to us as a group, providing reasoning behind why Kennedy used these specific phrases hand-in-hand with the word “we.” Notice the mentions of “we” and how it brings the entire conflict together as one nation. Using “we” became such an inclusive format and Kennedy made sure to use this in his speech on behalf of the whole nation.
JFK painted the Steel Companies the “bad guys”, as the average American people were now the superheroes. Throughout the speech this can be seen by examples such as “The Department of Defense and other agencies,” whom “are reviewing its impact on their policies of procurement,” and “ Members of the Congress [planning] appropriate inquiries into… what legislative safeguards may be needed to protect the public interest.” Kennedy tells the listeners that it is just these steel companies that are not regulating their prices (just raising them), compared to the other large corporations who are not practicing the same tactics. This entire press conference is aimed at the steel industry on behalf of the American people. Comparing these other companies to the steel corporations greater the need for this crisis to stop. Drawing attention to the specific problem itself was Kennedy’s goal.
The summary of this speech is the tactics that Kennedy used to make his speech better received by the people he was standing up for. Using concrete examples and facts to back up his ideas, inclusive verbs, and witty comparisons made many people respect his bold free thinking. As a President Kennedy was well liked and respected, and after this press conference he was relatable and inclusive to all. When Kennedy got involved in 1962, he spoke to even the average American, setting his intentions right, while many others’ negative mindsets about this President changed. JFK made this speech not only about the people, but for the people.
Hi claire!
Overall your essay seemed very thought out and you included a lot of information/evidence. Although in your concluding paragraph you stated all three claims, there was no defined thesis at the beginning of your essay. Similarly, you made a claim in each of your body paragraphs but you should clarify at the beginning of your essay what your thesis is.
Each of your topic sentences match up with what claims you were presenting and I particularly like how you made them creative, almost like telling a story. In your second paragraph I believe you could elaborate more on inclusive language instead only referencing the word “we” on multiple occasions.
You gave a lot of context which is helpful but it can’t be the bulk of your essay. For example your first paragraph was filled with information that wasn’t always necessary. One or two sentences for context is all that should be included because the claim-evidence-explanation should be the priority. Even though there wasn’t a thesis statement It was clear in each paragraph which claim was being made and you used evidence for each.
You clearly stated your thesis and called to action in your conclusion. It eloquently closed the essay and wrapped up the information.
All in all your essay was throughout but could use some organization, I enjoyed it! 0/1 thesis, ¾ body,1/1 sophistication. Total 4/6
Former US president, John F. Kennedy’s steel press conference argues that major steel companies need to adapt stable prices and wages, especially in the country’s time of economic stress. He supports this with a reminder of current national issues, economic statistics, and describing the impact of their unjust policies. Kennedy gave this address with the purpose of calling these steel companies out on their immoral prosperity publicly in order to gain their attention and demand significant change. Although the address was for all of America to see, he was speaking directly to the problem, without holding anything back. The former president was pissed.
Kennedy begins with a description of the severe hardships the country the country is facing. He speaks with fervor of international crises and the citizens of america “devoting our energies to economic recovery and stability.” He recounts what an average american is asked to do for their country, risking their lives, separating from their families, all while these big steel companies sit at the top and exploit those down below. He does this to call attention to the immoral nature of the unnecessarily pricy demands for steel, when each life is already filled with such hardship.
After hitting America in the heart with a convention of their struggles, he begins to state the facts. He determines that there is no real justification for the economic policies presented by the steel industry by calculating, security fees, employment costs and even raw material costs. As he presents such information, he is sure to provide ethos from the mentions of “Secretary Mcnamara” and the “Bureau of Labor Statistics” in order to multiply the effects of logos. This all completes the trio of basic argument strategies, whilst setting up for the final punch of pathos to come.
To close the address, JFK explains the impact of the steel industry’s actions, ending with the final blow, “Some time ago I asked each American to consider what he would do for his country and I asked the steel companies. In the last 24 hours we had their answer.” It’s a long quote, but an extremely effective one. Dropping some more ethos along the way such as “The Steel Workers Union” and the “Federal Trade Commission”, Kennedy predicts the sharp increase in profits for steel companies, while effectively showcasing the exploitation it takes to get there.
Former president John F, Kennedy utilized this steel press conference to argue the unjust policies presented by steel companies, while demanding a change be made for the betterment of the country as a whole. Presenting current affairs, logic, and skilled predictions, he was able to near prove the corruption of the industry, whilst channeling his rage into a persuasion of the public. This was an extremely effective way to draw attention to this problem and rather concisely suggest amendment. JFK’s combination of strategies when addressing a double audience, is something to study when dealing with a public cry for justice.
Hey Elora! First thing’s first, I think you have a strong argument and claim in your opening paragraph but I think you could make which sentence your thesis statement is clearer. There were a couple sentences that felt like they could be thesis statements so I would just make it a bit less confusing. As I briefly touched upon, I think your opening paragraph is strong and it sets up your essay and claims very well. I would just add something to spice it up and make it a bit more attention grabbing at the beginning as opposed to jumping straight into your claims.
Your topic sentences are clear and to the point. The only thing I would do is maybe try to separate the quote from your third topic sentence (the one that starts off the second paragraph) for a bit more clarity. Your evidence is very clear and I loved how you quoted the speech without making that the only thing you do. I would, however, love to see you perhaps elaborate on these quotes in your own words. Also be sure to correctly cite your quotes because as of right now you simply included the quotes without sourcing them. I think you could also elaborate more on your third claim as that paragraph is noticeably shorter than the previous two, maybe explain what the organizations you mentioned are?
I think that your last paragraph does an excellent job on restating your thesis statement and I would even go as far as to say that the restatement is stronger than the initial thesis. However, I couldn’t find a “So what?” statement, call to action, or rhetorical question. While not necessarily essential, these will make your ending much stronger. Overall, your structure works for me, but I would either separate out your first two claims or make your third claim longer to help with the size difference. This is a little nit-picky though and it is more up to personal preference. Your paragraphs do flow very well together. Overall, fantastic work!
In the year of 1962 a press conference, with Mr. President John F Kennedy ( the 35th president of the U.S) took place to shed light on a number of negative, and unlawful effects of the increase of the price of steel that at the time a number of major companies implemented during the era of an American economic recession. Mr. Kennedy had a very sympathetic , and logical approach to this particular problem at hand. He voiced his opinions , and disconcerns of his nation; wanting the goal of peace in a “free competitive economy’.” When it came to the steel industry,Kennedy had a very powerful opinion on the increasing price of steel, he felt that within the limitations of law the steel industry itself just blindly decided to do what they thought was best. Leading them to move faster, and not logically think of the effects : workers , consumers , and even the environment would experience. Mr. Kennedy statigatlecaly told the public all the new gods , anf was open about current political and humanitarian issues dealing with the economy , war , and even oppression amongst the nation.
With the steel price raise performing in foreigner markets would become a hassle. JFK also states his disapproval in a number of ways every American: moms, dads, business men, workers, farmers. He declares how the new steel price will lead to an increase in the prices of homes and cars and appliances and machinery and tools. Most importantly, it would add a billion dollars to the cost of the war, something America did not have.
After describing America’s financial situation, Kennedy switches over to explaining the steel industry and just how poor their decision was. He builds off of his initial strategy by continuing to bring attention to every negative outcome of the price increase. The president starts by stating everything the price would make difficult: competing in foreign markets, withstanding competition from foreign imports and stemming the flow of gold. He explains how important “stemming gold” is for our country, that it pays for our security commitments abroad. Kennedy unravels the fact that the corporations at hand decided to increase prices during a time when “they could be exploring how more efficiency and better prices could be obtained”. Attentiveness and ability to see forth change in the better good of his nation , bringing the light to unlawful objective companies.
In 1776 the leaders of the American colonies had decided that their ruling government had wronged them enough times and it was time for a change. They deliberately broke laws in protest and eventually declared war on Britain. Laws should be broken on some occasions, lot only is this supported by the declaration of independence but it is also supported by common sense.
The declaration of independence says that whenever a government becomes destructive it is the right of the people to over through it. When the government is clearly reaching over the lines and making limiting laws or giving themselves to much power then the government is no longer able to keep themselves in balance or in check, that means it becomes our (the peoples) job to contradict the government and keep them in check when they can’t do it themselves.
It is also important to keep in mind basic morals when tackling this subject. When the government does something that is widely believed to be against basic human rights then it is not only our right but our responsibility to oppose the government’s decision. Our job to protect our people comes before our job to uphold the law, especially if the law is clearly way out of line.
Yes the law is crucial to keep order and to set standards but it is also important to set standards for our lawmakers. If we do not speak out when we are being crushed then we will continue to be run over.
Overall, I would give this essay a 0/6
It wasn’t related to the prompt at all.
President John F Kennedy is a master of the word “we”. From the first sentence, to the very last one, he makes the common man feel like he’s on their side, talking about the millions of Americans sacrificing for us, making the common man strong and united. Meanwhile he excludes the steel companies from this united group, making them separated from the common man, making the common man feel patriotic to have contempt and hatred for the steel companies in their minds.
Not only does he appeal to the common man through communal patriotism, but he switches to a more specific group of people. He mentions farmers and businessmen and servicemen. He mentions each group individually to show how everyone is American in their own way, and at the same time, is condemning steel companies using factual evidence in a very disapproving manner.
Kennedy’s rhetorical uses throughout the speech regarding the war are very logical. He goes into detail about the state that Americans are in, as well as the economy, and how they’re struggling. How the world is struggling. Talking about Berlin and South East Asia.
Kennedy’s overall goal with this speech was to get the american people’s trust to side with him in getting the steel companies to lower their prices. With all the rhetorical said in this speech, he succeeds in earning that trust. Through his elegance and intelligent wordplay. How could the American people not trust him.
Hey!
Writer: Mook, Jordan
Editor: Moore, Jasmin
On first glance, this looks more like an essay outline than an actual essay, but nonetheless here are my notes.
Intro: I believe that your thesis statement would is,”Meanwhile he excludes the steel companies from this united group, making them separated from the common man, making the common man feel patriotic to have contempt and hatred for the steel companies in their minds.” I think that if this was worded differently, it would be a much stronger thesis. You might be able to say, “By excluding steel companies and patronizing the American people Kennedy, achieves his goal of…”
Body #1: So, what you have is good, you just need more. Give me an example, or quote how he uses communal patriotism. How does communal patriotism contribute to Kennedy’s purpose. What exactly is he mentioning about farmers, businessmen, and servicemen that makes it so condemning fr steel companies? How does this help him achieve his overall purpose?
Body #2: I would give you the same advice here. You say that Kennedy goes into detail, but there’s nothing to support that. How does he go into detail? Why does he go into detail? Why is it important that he goes into detail about the economy and the state of Americans? How is the struggle of the rest of the world relevant to what’s going on in the United States? When he talk about Berlin and Asia you might want to add quotes. You have very string claims, but no evidence.
Body #3: -N/A-
Conclusion: I think the topic sentence of your conclusion is beautifully written. Do you think he achieved this goal? If so, find a way to include that into the conclusion. I would also make it a point to restate your thesis. You might also consider adding a call to action as well.
Overall Impression: You have the right idea, and I believe that this has potential to be a great essay! If you make sure to add evidence, detail, and make sure everything id relevant, you will blow this out of the water. Like I said previously, this looks like more of an outline than an essay, so I feel that I’m not able to give this a proper score. Keep up the good work though!
In April of 1962, America was going through a recession while fighting in the Cold War. Our president at the time, John F. Kennedy was doing everything he could to keep our nation as calm as possible by suggesting fair and stable prices and wages. This soon proved to be a challenge when US steel companies raised their prices. On April 10, 1962, Kennedy addressed these companies in a press conference, asking them to lower prices and showing the country what it means to be a president of this great nation.
Even though Kennedy is addressing the nation as a whole, he speaks specifically to the steel companies who raised their prices against Kennedy’s instructions. Kennedy knows he has to build credibility despite what he already has from occupying the Oval Office. In order to do so, he utilizes a commanding tone and names several powerful organizations such as the Department of Justice, the Federal Trade Commission, the Steel Workers’ Union, the Department of Defense, and Members of Congress. Kennedy also quotes Secretary McNamara, the secretary of defense under Kennedy’s administration to show the gravity of the situation. As well as quoting McNamara, Kennedy also tells the American public exactly what will happen because of the rising prices in order to create fear and urgency in the public. Kennedy tells them that the raise in prices will “increase the cost of homes, autos, appliances, and most other items….” Another reason Kennedy tells the people what will happen is so that if the companies don’t lower their prices, the public will know exactly who is to blame and might even take action. Another way Kennedy inspires action is by his emotionally charged language. With phrases such as “irresponsible defiance” or the “sense of public responsibility” that he implies the steel companies are lacking, he brings those feelings of patriotism out of every American. Gone are the lines that separate political parties; the American public will unite to combat a corrupt industry that will directly affect their lives due to their greed. Kennedy knows this and furthers his point by listing how much the country was going through at that time. Between the conflicts in Berlin, Vietnam, and the recession at home, Kennedy knows this sudden development might be the tipping point that sends America into a panic. So as not to incite chaos, Kennedy also includes the more rational side of things such as the information such as the production stats of the steel companies. In doing so, he mentions that the productivity has gone up, creating an expectation that prices would be lowered. Instead they went up, showing the values of the steel companies. Kennedy points this out in an authoritative tone as well as reminding the American public that he asked them what they can do for their country. He then, as a final call to action, points out that the rise in steel prices indicates “their answer.”
As a whole, Kennedy uses rhetoric perfectly to persuade the steel companies to lower their prices. He uses devices such as anaphora, appositive phrase, and inverted syntax to drive his points home. He also appeals to ethos, logos, and pathos in such a way that it doesn’t feel like he’s making a speech. Kennedy speaks directly to each and every American, calling them to hold the steel companies accountable for their actions by lowering the prices to a more reasonable amount. I couldn’t think of a better display of what it means to lead this country if I tried.
From 1961 until his assassination in 1963, President John F. Kennedy served as the President of the United States. JFK was President during the Vietnam War and based his efforts largely on bringing the United States out of its economic slump. On April 11th, 1962, JFK held a press conference in response to a rise in steel prices. The President most likely wanted to stress the importance of economic stability, and how it can not be messed with for personal benefit or excuse, as the US economy is slowly emerging from a recession. Using verbal choices, diction and syntax, and sound, President John F. Kennedy was able to successfully express his message and point to his audience. Rhetoric choices were scattered all throughout the speech, as creditable statistical data, the President’s ability to sympathize and empathize with the American people, and the soul foundation for the purpose in holding a news conference is appealing to his audience. JFK’s direct word choices and speech structure leaves little to no leeway for misinterpretation and misunderstanding, especially considering his tone of speech.
As steel producers increased their prices by 3.5 percent, President John F. Kennedy expressed a clear sense of urgency by citing backed up negative statements that impacted every American citizen. The President begins his speech by describing the desperate situation, which generates a panic-filled atmosphere that draws the audience in. The American people immediately understand JFK’s intent when data is constantly backed up by reliable sources, and it is their duty as Americans to push the big steel companies to lower their prices again. As the President is outlining how the selfishness of steel producers will affect every American, he expresses sympathy by saying, “American citizens will find it hard, as I do,” indicating that he intends to stand by them. To demonstrate that he is mindful of the steel corporations’ wrongdoings and that he will do everything in his power to fight them.
President John F. Kennedy is able to easily express his distaste for the increased use of steel, as he masterfully weaves his words together. As he continues with his speech, the structure of his speech, as well as what might seem to be digression parts, helps the audience to genuinely hone in and try to comprehend the message that is in store. Furthermore, his choice of words, as well as the strong connotative meanings that come with them, are strewn about the speech. By using phrases like “seriously handicapped” or “inflationary spiral,” each syntax is carefully designed to appeal to the audience in a bitter, accusatory, straightforward manner, aiding in the production of his speech’s meaning. Each expression, term, part, and speech as a whole is meticulously created.
By being bitter, accusatory, and blunt, President Kennedy clarifies his tone and expresses his dissatisfaction with the situation as a whole. The President is candidly able to articulate his intent as he confronts the steel companies’ reckless actions, as he addresses the people of America, as he addresses his dissatisfaction with the issue. When speaking about the various problems resulting from the rise in steel prices, the President’s tone shifts from one of obligation and appreciation of the annoyance that can accompany higher steel prices to one of wanting to stand up to the wrongdoings committed by these steel firms.
The President’s reason for holding a press conference reveals that he is genuine and sincere. From skillfully stringing together a simple but powerful sentence, President John F. Kennedy communicates his data, compassion, and where he stands morally in the issue of steel companies raising their prices through rhetorical appeals. The audience will deduce a simple meaning from how straightforward and forthright he is in his manner and tone throughout the presentation of the speech. Companies that make pressure steel. How it is their responsibility as citizens of the United States to oppose steel corporations’ irrational and self-centered decisions, and how they have the power to do so.
John F Kennedy was president during the early 60s. While his term was cut short due to his assassination, he still managed to leave a legacy. In 1962, the steel companies heavily raised their prices to the tune of $600 million dollars worth of profit on it, but it screwed over the American steel workers and citizens. Kennedy was quite upset about this, and in a press conference, made a very powerful speech attacking these steel companies. In this speech, Kennedy used an antagonistic tone, ethical appeals, and unifying language in order to try and unite the American people against the steel companies.
Kennedy’s use of an antagonistic tone to emphasize the amoral behavior of the steel companies, which further isolates the steel companies making it easier for the reader to get behind him. An example of this can be found in this quote,”a few gigantic corporations have decided to increase prices in ruthless disregard of their public responsibilities.” When Kennedy says this, he is expressing that the steel companies are bad, making it hard to side with the steel companies.
Kennedy’s use of ethical and moral appeals attempts to appeal to the reader’s sense of morality, which creates a larger net to catch more people into his side. An example of this is,“the American people have a right to expect in return for that freedom, a higher sense of business 105 responsibility for the welfare of their country than has been shown in the last two days.” Here he says that the American people deserve better than people who capitalize on them, further pushing the steel companies towards disfavor.
Kennedy uses unifying language to create a sense of comradeship, allowing the listener to feel welcomed to him, thus further ostracizing the steel companies. For example,”When we are confronted with grave crises in Berlin and Southeast Asia, when we are devoting our energies to economic recovery and stability, when we are 10 asking Reservists to leave their homes and families for months on end, and servicemen to risk their lives—and four were killed in the last two days in Viet Nam—and asking union members to hold down their wage requests, at a time when restraint 15 and sacrifice are being asked of every citizen, the American people will find it hard, as I do.” Kennedy uses words like we throughout the text, and also saying that he is struggling with them. This assists his goal by saying that he is also in the fight on the side of the listener.
Kennedy uses these rhetorical strategies to try and sway public opinion against the steel companies and ostracize them. Because of these rhetorical strategies, this speech is one of the most powerful and effective made against the steel companies.
After the significant price increase in steel during the 60’s, Kennedy felt like he had to make a response to the situation at hand. In Kennedy’s speech he easily gets the point across to the audience using multiple rhetorical devices throughout his speech.
He elaborates his concern and disapproval that with these higher prices it will greatly harm the economic stability of the nation just because these companies have begun to act on greed. He reminds that with the cold war in full force as well as the previous needed recovery from past economic recession, it is his ultimate goal to condemn these steel companies to lower their prices. This use of alliteration helps really draw the attention to the true greed of these companies, stating that these executives of these companies are in the pursuit of private power instead of accomplishing the duties they have to the public. Especially during this economic recession and war. Kennedy during his speech includes himself in the group of everyday american using lines such as “we are confronted, we are asking ”. This brings a sort of repetition which creates a certain rhythm and helps support his claims he repeats it over and over. It shows the audience that he is on their side and that they are united that their sacrifices are his as well. Which goes back to him using the words such as “we” to really grab that feeling of we are in this together united as one. Kennedy doesn’t just lump himself with the people of the United states to gain their trust but also establishes credibility bringing up statistics and other information. These documents were also given to Kennedy from trusted sources such as the Secretary of Defense, Robert as well as the acting commissioner of labor statistics. He concludes his speech by using allusion and bringing up all the departments that have been affected by the raise in steel prices.
Kennedy shows the United states the true greed of these steel companies by using these rhetorical devices such as allusion, repetition, pathos, logos etc. Which was ultimately very effective towards his audience as he showed these executives the consequences of their actions. He truly puts an authoritative tone that makes these companies reconsider and stop the steel prices from going up.
Aligning himself with the anger of the American people, Kennedy chastises the steel companies for their disregard to the American people. In turning against the company after their “wholly unjustifiable and irresponsible defiance of the public interest”
President Kennedy uses inclusive language to rally alongside the angered people of America to further argue against the actions of the steel industry. “In this serious hour in our nation’s history, when we are confronted with grave crises, when we…” This language allows the audience, the people of America, to understand Kennedy’s concern for their sacrifice and hardships as well as mutual anger over the subject.
In using ethos and pathos appeals, President Kennedy states from his position of power to the companies that their actions go against the people’s sacrifices. “Gigantic corporations have decided to increase prices in ruthless disregard of their public responsibilities.” This allows Kennedy to advise the companies of their wrong doing from as a superior figure.
Essentially, John F. Kennedy Conveys an effective argument against the steel companies price increase through his use of inclusive language, ethical appeal, and logic to expand on the consequences of such actions
Writer: Richmond, Sidney
Editor: Moss, Elizabeth
Though what you have is very minimal, you are onto something great and I think it will only grow as you perfect it!
Thesis: 1/1
I thought your thesis was great and defensible. I think you could have added a little more to the introduction overall; however, for what is there you are doing exactly what is needed!
Evidence and Commentary/ Body Paragraphs: 2/4
Though there is very little evidence and commentary provided, you have a great start! What is there is great! I think the quotes could have been “blended” into the writing a little better to make it flow more but you made good textual and rhetorical points.
Sophistication: 0/1
When expanding on this essay, try to avoid generalizations and maybe add a little more “meat” to your writing! However, you are doing fantastic so far and should be proud of yourself. GOOD start!:)
John F. Kennedy, highly respected former president of the United States, in a news conference held April 11th, 1962, discussed the recent alarming news of rising steel prices. Kennedy chooses to develop his speech through strong diction, professional tones, and strategy rather than specific rhetorical devices. He speaks to America in order to calm the concerns of many as he was adamant in keeping prices stable at such a time of economic distress. Kennedy writes for mature audiences as he is speaking on economic issues many younger citizens might not fully comprehend.
Throughout his speech, Kennedy repeatedly appeals to collective sacrifice and responsibility as he reaches to sympathize yet instruct all classes of citizens. He begins by describing the situation at hand and using the distinctive pronoun “we” to refer to–himself included–as part of the many citizens affected by the increase in steel prices. Though, due to his socioeconomic standing, many would think of him to sympathize with the steel executives, he points out the “restraint and sacrifice [that is] being asked of every citizen” as knows this increase will only benefit that small percentage of steel administration. As for the other “185 million Americans”, the rise in prices would additionally “increase the cost of homes, autos, appliances, and most other items for every American family”.
Furthermore, Kennedy begins to switch from sympathizing with certain classes as he does not want to lose the attention of the steel executives and begins to talk about the federal effects. “It would add… an estimated one billion dollars to the cost of [America’s] defenses” plus a myriad of other purposes “at a time when every dollar is needed for national security”. Due to all these reasons and more, there is “no justification for an increase in the steel prices” which he makes very clear in his speech. Any form of increase in price would only hurt the economy, especially at such a vulnerable time as this. As his argument of class, federal, and economic issues is building, he additionally remarks that steel costs would be “expected to decline in the next twelve months”, creating a greater case against the rise of prices; however, because steel companies have proven to be so successful and necessary to America, these cost changes will not hurt them.
Concluding his argument, he stresses the impact of the steel companies deciding to “increase prices in ruthless disregard of their public responsibilities,” implying that they have every right to do what is necessary to succeed but within the regard of possible harsh federal and class effects. Kennedy also realizes that although the steel industry has certain responsibilities and rules they must regard, the government also does and they will abide by those during all subjects of disagreement. He finally leaves those listening with a very interesting statement asking “each American to consider what he would do for his country” as well as “steel companies”. This rhetorical question left an impact on many as citizen’s saw the steel companies blatant disregard for their freedoms.
Cleverly, he made the steel companies responsible for whatever were to happen next and held them accountable for their actions against citizen’s freedoms. Without need for aggression, Kennedy is able to appear threatening and strong to those who do not comply with basic rules and regulations. Through his use of appeals to accountability and sacrifice, he is able to clearly address the concerns of all groups and hold those liable who need be.