I Have a Dream: Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

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When informing Americans across the nation of his dream, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. proposed an unforgettable speech that would one day change The United States of America forever. In analyzing “I Have a Dream”, there are a few rhetorical purposes that are reflected throughout. These purposes are repeatedly focusing in on a particular audience in which King speaks to. Using different types of appeals and literary elements, his speech produced a meaningful purpose that the audience could relate to. The issue of racism in the mid twentieth century played a huge role in Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech. Throughout the 1960’s he gradually became a civil rights activist, participating in multiple boycotts and riots against the mistreatment of blacks. When looking back on all of his efforts in civil rights, King’s “I Have a Dream” speech had a serious impact on all types of people as it brought out some sympathy as well as hope in the audience. More importantly, this famous speech was heard during the March on Washington, one of the most famous marches in history. The way African-Americans were treated was expressed with great depression and described with words of aspiration in encouraging equality in the future of America. This motivational speech provided black activists with a clearer vision of racial equality and what the future held for it. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s speech reflected a few powerful rhetorical purposes with his words of wisdom and encouragement. The first and most obvious purpose of his speech encourages the audience to keep their faith and stay hopeful during the times of discrimination. With his ultimate goal to overcome the present society, King represents this purpose when challe... ... middle of paper ... ... beyond. The whole theme of the speech was to emphasize that all people are created the same. He believed strongly that those of a different race should not be segregated against, but instead people should just get over themselves and get along. King’s seventeen minute speech not only changed the hearts of most Americans, but also goes down as one of the most influential speeches ever given. This country may not be perfect and free of racism in modern day America; nevertheless, some parts of his speech became a reality. The most important part that became true is when he stated “I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin, but by the content of their character.” Most minorities in today’s society are not judged by their race but by their accomplishments and the choices they make.

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