George W Bush Inaugural Speech Analysis

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In his inaugural speech given on January 20, 2001, George W. Bush address the country for the first time after being sworn in as the 43rd president of the United States. Millions of people from around the world tuned in to watch the president give his address. The people who voted for and against him are both wanting to hear what the president has to say. George W. Bush gives an effective inaugural address by using biblical allusions, collaborative language, and an anaphora in order to unite the country after a contentious election. Bush used biblical allusions to appeal mostly to the evangelicals who were listening to his speech. He gives his first allusion when stating, “I know this is in our reach because we are guided by a power larger …show more content…

He states, “We will defend our allies and our interests; we will show purpose without arrogance; we will meet aggression and bad faith with resolve and strength; and to all nations, we will speak for the values that gave our nation birth.” The repetition of “we will” brings determination, and inclusiveness towards the audience. Bush outlines what America will do as a country, not what he will do as an individual. The American people feel united with Bush as if they are all the same team. He avoids speaking out his own political aims that might be deemed as controversial. Defending allies and interests, showing purpose without arrogance, meeting aggression with resolve and strength, and speaking for American values are all ideals that the American people can unanimously agree upon. In conclusion, George W. Bush was able to give a meaningful speech. Bush gave an effective inaugural address by using biblical allusions, collaborative language, and an anaphora in order to unite the country after a contentious election. His rhetoric added value to his speech and made it one to remember. Bush was successful in achieving his purpose. America was able to see itself as more united as a result of his

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