First Inaugural Address To The Nation, By Jimmy Carter And Ronald Reagan

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In lieu of the presidential election of 1980, Jimmy Carter and Ronald Reagan relayed two speeches to the American public in support of their respective campaigns. Though both speeches address national challenges, national unity, and a call for American values, the speeches differ on the role of government, economic philosophy and the overall perception of American values. Jimmy Carter’s tone and approach in his “Energy and National Goals: Address to the Nation” is despondent and introspective as he acknowledges American’s doubt in the government, but calls for American’s to rebuild their confidence in democracy and to join him in his determination. Ronald Reagan’s First Inaugural Address had a patriotic and assertive approach as he addressed …show more content…

Carter also called for collective action and sacrifice of the American people, a call for patriotism to overcome the economic problems in his presidency. “We can succeed only if we tap our greatest resources—America’s people, America’s values, and America’s confidence.” Carter’s rhetoric follows suit of many presidents, a call to action of all Americans to stand with their country. Jimmy Carter’s speech only slightly supported his polls, ultimately failing him at the time of the election, even though he spoke with determination and sincerity for the sake of the American people. Reagan’s election in 1980 marked a shift toward conservatism in American politics with the assistance of his background in media and television, which provided Ronald Reagan with the skills of communication and the use of rhetoric. With the acknowledgement of tradition and unity, that of which gained him backing in his political campaign. Though he faced economic issues such as inflation and unemployment, Ronald Reagan did deliver following his First Inaugural …show more content…

Delivered on his rhetoric in the fact that his “Reaganomics” succeeded in government regulation all the while promoting free market principles. Reagan said that the government must “work with us, not over us; to stand by our side, not ride on our back. Government can and must provide opportunity, not smother it; foster productivity, not stifle it.” Ronald Reagan stood behind the fact that the government is the problem and succeeded in curbing government intervention, by promoting tax cuts, deregulation and decentralizing federal government authority, contrary to Jimmy Carter. Reagan’s commitment to economic growth stemmed from that statement that "it is time to reawaken this industrial giant, to get government back within its means, and to lighten our punitive tax burden." And these will be our first priorities, and on these principles there will be no compromise.” Reducing taxes was a goal Reagan has set in his speech and delivered upon, though it seemingly benefited rich men more so than other classes. Amidst the 1980 presidential election, Jimmy Carter and Ronald Reagan delivered speeches to the American public, championing their respective visions for the

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