After reading John McCains actual concession speech I found that there are things that I found effective and some thing that I found to be ineffective. The beginning of his speech revolves around congradulating president elect, Barack Obama, on his momentous victory. I found McCains words very effective and inspiring. Rather than just congradulating Obama, McCain goes further to describe what a historic event had just taken place and that he is proud of Obama's ability to inspire the hopes of millions of Americans. I think this part of the speech is especially effective because at no point does McCain sound bitter about his defeat. I would like to use this in our speech because I believe it shows the maturity and respect that John McCain truly has for America and all Americans. I also like his historical reference to Booker T. Washington being invited to dine at the whitehouse, and how far we have come since then. Rather than focusing on his defeat and surface level compliments to Obama, he chooses to point out to his supporters that this outcome should not be viewed in sadness but as an amazing step forward for our nation. I think using quotes and stories like this would be a very effective way to reach our audience.
I also found it interesting and unique how he told the audience that he blames himself for not winning the election, not the voters. I think it is effective because it makes him likeable. He is placing the blame on himself rather than letting his supporters believe they failed him. In the next section on the speech he mentions Sarah Palin and her effort in the campaign. While his words were very sincere, I think that in our speech we should spend more time talking about her contribution. I think that she was a very vital part of the compaign, both good and bad, and I think adding in more about her would be effective.
I love the ending of his speech because he really portrays how grateful he was just to be a part of this election. I think it is admirable that he can see past defeat and comprehend the priviledge he has had to run for this high office. Overall, I think this speech is more effective than most others I have heard.
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Franklin D. Roosevelt's War Message, Asking Congress to Declare War on Japan
Yesterday, December 7, 1941—a date which will live in infamy—the United States of America was suddenly and deliberately attacked by naval and air forces of the Empire of Japan.
The United States was at peace with that nation and, at the solicitation of Japan, was still in conversation with its Government and its Emperor looking toward the maintenance of peace in the Pacific.
Indeed, one hour after Japanese air squadrons had commenced bombing Oahu, the Japanese Ambassador to the United States and his colleague delivered to the Secretary of State a formal reply to a recent American message. While this reply stated that it seemed useless to continue the existing diplomatic negotiations, it contained no threat or hint of war or armed attack.
It will be recorded that the distance of Hawaii from Japan makes it obvious that the attack was deliberately planned many days or even weeks ago. During the intervening time, the Japanese Government has deliberately sought to deceive the United States by false statements and expressions of hope for continued peace. The attack yesterday on the Hawaiian Islands has caused severe damage to American naval and military forces. Very many American lives have been lost. In addition, American ships have been reported torpedoed on the high seas between San Francisco and Honolulu.
Yesterday the Japanese Government also launched an attack against Malaya.
Last night Japanese forces attacked Hong Kong.
Last night Japanese forces attacked Guam.
Last night Japanese forces attacked the Philippine Islands.
Last night the Japanese attacked Wake Island.
This morning the Japanese attacked Midway Island.
Japan has, therefore, undertaken a surprise offensive extending throughout the Pacific area. The facts of yesterday speak for themselves. The people of the United States have already formed their opinions and well understand the implications to the very life and safety of our nation.
As Commander in Chief of the army and navy I have directed that all measures be taken for our defense.
Always will we remember the character of the onslaught against us.
No matter how long it may take us to overcome this premeditated invasion, the American people in their righteous might will win through to absolute victory. I believe I interpret the will of the Congress and of the people when I assert that we will not only defend ourselves to the uttermost but will make very certain that this form of treachery shall never endanger us again.
Hostilities exist. There is no blinking at the fact that our people, our territory and our interests are in grave danger.
With confidence in our armed forces—with the unbounding determination of our people—we will gain the inevitable triumph—so help us God.
I ask that the Congress declare that since the unprovoked and dastardly attack by Japan on Sunday, December 7, a state of war has existed between the United States and the Japanese Empire.
When I googled famous presidential speeches this first one to catch my eye was President Roosevelt's address concerning the attack on Pearl Harbor. Given that I could say the first line of this speech in my head without even reading it reminds me of how important this moment in history was. There was no humor incorporated into this speech, mainly because it was given due to such a tragic event. Roosevelt uses pathos and logos to convince Congress that a horrible thing had taken place and that the U.S. must take action.
Yesterday, December 7, 1941—a date which will live in infamy—the United States of America was suddenly and deliberately attacked by naval and air forces of the Empire of Japan.
The United States was at peace with that nation and, at the solicitation of Japan, was still in conversation with its Government and its Emperor looking toward the maintenance of peace in the Pacific.
Indeed, one hour after Japanese air squadrons had commenced bombing Oahu, the Japanese Ambassador to the United States and his colleague delivered to the Secretary of State a formal reply to a recent American message. While this reply stated that it seemed useless to continue the existing diplomatic negotiations, it contained no threat or hint of war or armed attack.
It will be recorded that the distance of Hawaii from Japan makes it obvious that the attack was deliberately planned many days or even weeks ago. During the intervening time, the Japanese Government has deliberately sought to deceive the United States by false statements and expressions of hope for continued peace. The attack yesterday on the Hawaiian Islands has caused severe damage to American naval and military forces. Very many American lives have been lost. In addition, American ships have been reported torpedoed on the high seas between San Francisco and Honolulu.
Yesterday the Japanese Government also launched an attack against Malaya.
Last night Japanese forces attacked Hong Kong.
Last night Japanese forces attacked Guam.
Last night Japanese forces attacked the Philippine Islands.
Last night the Japanese attacked Wake Island.
This morning the Japanese attacked Midway Island.
Japan has, therefore, undertaken a surprise offensive extending throughout the Pacific area. The facts of yesterday speak for themselves. The people of the United States have already formed their opinions and well understand the implications to the very life and safety of our nation.
As Commander in Chief of the army and navy I have directed that all measures be taken for our defense.
Always will we remember the character of the onslaught against us.
No matter how long it may take us to overcome this premeditated invasion, the American people in their righteous might will win through to absolute victory. I believe I interpret the will of the Congress and of the people when I assert that we will not only defend ourselves to the uttermost but will make very certain that this form of treachery shall never endanger us again.
Hostilities exist. There is no blinking at the fact that our people, our territory and our interests are in grave danger.
With confidence in our armed forces—with the unbounding determination of our people—we will gain the inevitable triumph—so help us God.
I ask that the Congress declare that since the unprovoked and dastardly attack by Japan on Sunday, December 7, a state of war has existed between the United States and the Japanese Empire.
When I googled famous presidential speeches this first one to catch my eye was President Roosevelt's address concerning the attack on Pearl Harbor. Given that I could say the first line of this speech in my head without even reading it reminds me of how important this moment in history was. There was no humor incorporated into this speech, mainly because it was given due to such a tragic event. Roosevelt uses pathos and logos to convince Congress that a horrible thing had taken place and that the U.S. must take action.
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
Sources
So far I think I want to write my paper about what will happen to our country in regards to taxes. I know this sounds like a very boring topic but I feel that it is such a huge issue and I would like to learn more about how tax prices effect the different classes of Americans. I tried to narrow down this topic and arrived at John McCain's tax plan. I'm not sure if this is quite narrowed down enough but I want to focus on how his vision, if implemented, would effect the lower and upper income families in America. But at the same time I am also interested in how Obama's plan will effect us, so I may end up changing my mind. My sources for class today are both from the official McCain website. One outlines the basics of what exactly John McCain proposed to do in regards to taxes and why he thinks this will benefit our country. The other source is a speech given by McCain where he talks about the difference between Obama's and his own plan.
Monday, October 13, 2008
Use of Arguments Within the Portfolio
Each of the three pieces within my portfolio present different ways of arguing. The arguments are all about the same general topic but are argued differently because of the context to which they are written.
In the letter to the editor the main focus is the credibility of the author of the original op-ed. There is also a difference in the way the letter to the editor is written. People reading my letter will have already read the original article, this allows me to make very specific arguments without having to go in depth about background.
When writing my own op-ed article was comparably easier than writing the letter to the editor. Rather than challenge someone else's argument, I was able to formulate my own. While writing this article I tried to focus on only the things I could backup with evidence. Therefore, my article is generally focused on her known accomplishments.
The humor portion of the portfolio was the most difficult argument to make. Some people are naturally good at creating humor pieces, I on the other hand am horrible at it. I think that humor as an argument is a very effective method if done correctly. Subjects that are usually heated arguments can be portrayed with out the negative response.
In the letter to the editor the main focus is the credibility of the author of the original op-ed. There is also a difference in the way the letter to the editor is written. People reading my letter will have already read the original article, this allows me to make very specific arguments without having to go in depth about background.
When writing my own op-ed article was comparably easier than writing the letter to the editor. Rather than challenge someone else's argument, I was able to formulate my own. While writing this article I tried to focus on only the things I could backup with evidence. Therefore, my article is generally focused on her known accomplishments.
The humor portion of the portfolio was the most difficult argument to make. Some people are naturally good at creating humor pieces, I on the other hand am horrible at it. I think that humor as an argument is a very effective method if done correctly. Subjects that are usually heated arguments can be portrayed with out the negative response.
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
Example of Humor
http://www.theonion.com/content/whitehousewar/sarahpalin
I found this page on theonion.com. The page basically gives some quotes or funny facts from Palin then it has a section on key issues. I find the site effective with its humorous tone mainly because it points out Sarah Palin's flaws without the usual angry response. If some of those things were said in just an op-ed or magazine I don't think it would go over well with many readers. Most of the points are meaningless in real life such as "Beauty Contest Victories:1984 Miss Wasilla, 1984 Miss Alaska, 2008 Republican Vice-Presidential Nomination". Of course Palin's beauty pageants have nothing to do with being elected to vice president but used in this type of joke the statement is effective. The site goes on to show some key issues of the election, such as immigration, climate, and health care and goes on to say Sarah Palin's stance on the issue. Each of these categories mearly says "Whatever Mr. McCain thinks is best." This use of humor insinuates that Palin has no mind of her own and agrees with whatever John McCain believes. In a normal setting this may offend Palin supporters but put in this context it is funny.
I found this page on theonion.com. The page basically gives some quotes or funny facts from Palin then it has a section on key issues. I find the site effective with its humorous tone mainly because it points out Sarah Palin's flaws without the usual angry response. If some of those things were said in just an op-ed or magazine I don't think it would go over well with many readers. Most of the points are meaningless in real life such as "Beauty Contest Victories:1984 Miss Wasilla, 1984 Miss Alaska, 2008 Republican Vice-Presidential Nomination". Of course Palin's beauty pageants have nothing to do with being elected to vice president but used in this type of joke the statement is effective. The site goes on to show some key issues of the election, such as immigration, climate, and health care and goes on to say Sarah Palin's stance on the issue. Each of these categories mearly says "Whatever Mr. McCain thinks is best." This use of humor insinuates that Palin has no mind of her own and agrees with whatever John McCain believes. In a normal setting this may offend Palin supporters but put in this context it is funny.
Thursday, September 25, 2008
Op-Ed
Wonder Woman
By: Danielle Denning
The big question on everyone’s mind today is whether Sarah Palin is qualified to be the next Vice President. Given that there are no specific guidelines to tell us what makes a good Vice President, a lot of people are having a hard time finding an answer to this question.
Sarah Palin made history on December 4, 2006 when she became the first woman ever elected as governor of Alaska. Foreshadowing of the future? Not only did she conquer this election, but she defeated an incumbent democratic candidate. Under her leadership, the Alaska Gas line Inducement Act (AGIA) was passed in House Bill 3001. AGIA permits TC Alaska to construct a 1,715 mile natural gas line providing America with safe and domestic sources of energy. While we all know that oil will not always be a reliable source of energy in the future, right now it is essential to our economy. Because of Sarah Palin and Alaska we have secured a reliable domestic source. Amazingly, AGIA is only one of Palin’s accomplishments in office. She is a leader of Alaska Conservation Commission, Interstate Oil and Gas Compact Commission, Alaska National Guard, and Governors Association National Resource Committee. Does Barak Obama do this much as Senator of Illinois?
In an MSNBC interview, former speaker of the House, Newt Gingrich was hounded about Sarah Palin’s qualifications compared to Obama. Gingrich responded that “Sarah Palin is a whistle blower who defeated an incumbent mayor and turned in the chairman of her own party and had him fined $12,000. When did Obama ever have the guts to do that?” While this response may not address Palin’s achievements, it certainly addresses her outstanding ethics.
Unfortunately, this is the very subject that has wrongly come into question in today’s news. Every last measure has been taken by Obama’s team to dig up secrets and destroy Sarah Palin’s good reputation. I find it somewhat humorous however to see how futile their attempts have been. The most democratic investigators could dig up was the Wootengate scandal. I applaud their efforts to bring down Palin and they came quite close, unfortunately for them, McCain’s camp was one step ahead.
Wootengate refers to Sarah Palin’s alleged abuse of office when she fired Public Safety Commissioner, Walt Monegan, which he claims is because he wouldn’t fire a state trooper. I will admit that her actions may be just cause for an investigation, but what Obama’s camp conveniently left out was the reason for her actions. When they leaked the scandal to the press did they forget to tell us that the state trooper in question had been tazoring his ten year old son? There are two sides to every story. Whether she abused her office or stood up for a little boy is completely a matter of opinion.
When the incident was first being investigated by a legislative inquiry in January, prior to her Vice President nomination, Palin agreed to fully co-operate. However, when the issue became more of an attack by the Democratic Party rather than a bipartisan investigation, Palin obviously changed her mind. The legislative inquiry led by Democratic senator Hollis French was said to be “planning the investigation as an ‘October Surprise’ before election day.” What exactly is nonpartisan and fair about that? In response, Palin filed a complaint against herself with the Alaska State Personnel Board, which investigates ethics complaints against executive branch employees. Going through this system will allow Palin to be fairly investigated without party intervention. Many have called her a coward, but what exactly is cowardly about refusing to be pushed around and targeted? This so called scandal has revealed more about the tricks of Obama’s campaign than it has anything about Sarah Palin’s ethics.
Sarah Palin has shown us time after time that she is capable of holding her own with the men who dominate politics. Not only does this portray much of her character but it empowers women everywhere. She is mother of five children with a 16 year reign in politics and numerous substantial achievements. What can’t she do? It’s time for Sarah Palin to make history, a second time.
Authors Note:
This is definately my first draft of the article. I didn't spend as much time as I would have liked writing it and I know there is room for a lot of improvement.
Any time of corrections or suggestions is welcome!
By: Danielle Denning
The big question on everyone’s mind today is whether Sarah Palin is qualified to be the next Vice President. Given that there are no specific guidelines to tell us what makes a good Vice President, a lot of people are having a hard time finding an answer to this question.
Sarah Palin made history on December 4, 2006 when she became the first woman ever elected as governor of Alaska. Foreshadowing of the future? Not only did she conquer this election, but she defeated an incumbent democratic candidate. Under her leadership, the Alaska Gas line Inducement Act (AGIA) was passed in House Bill 3001. AGIA permits TC Alaska to construct a 1,715 mile natural gas line providing America with safe and domestic sources of energy. While we all know that oil will not always be a reliable source of energy in the future, right now it is essential to our economy. Because of Sarah Palin and Alaska we have secured a reliable domestic source. Amazingly, AGIA is only one of Palin’s accomplishments in office. She is a leader of Alaska Conservation Commission, Interstate Oil and Gas Compact Commission, Alaska National Guard, and Governors Association National Resource Committee. Does Barak Obama do this much as Senator of Illinois?
In an MSNBC interview, former speaker of the House, Newt Gingrich was hounded about Sarah Palin’s qualifications compared to Obama. Gingrich responded that “Sarah Palin is a whistle blower who defeated an incumbent mayor and turned in the chairman of her own party and had him fined $12,000. When did Obama ever have the guts to do that?” While this response may not address Palin’s achievements, it certainly addresses her outstanding ethics.
Unfortunately, this is the very subject that has wrongly come into question in today’s news. Every last measure has been taken by Obama’s team to dig up secrets and destroy Sarah Palin’s good reputation. I find it somewhat humorous however to see how futile their attempts have been. The most democratic investigators could dig up was the Wootengate scandal. I applaud their efforts to bring down Palin and they came quite close, unfortunately for them, McCain’s camp was one step ahead.
Wootengate refers to Sarah Palin’s alleged abuse of office when she fired Public Safety Commissioner, Walt Monegan, which he claims is because he wouldn’t fire a state trooper. I will admit that her actions may be just cause for an investigation, but what Obama’s camp conveniently left out was the reason for her actions. When they leaked the scandal to the press did they forget to tell us that the state trooper in question had been tazoring his ten year old son? There are two sides to every story. Whether she abused her office or stood up for a little boy is completely a matter of opinion.
When the incident was first being investigated by a legislative inquiry in January, prior to her Vice President nomination, Palin agreed to fully co-operate. However, when the issue became more of an attack by the Democratic Party rather than a bipartisan investigation, Palin obviously changed her mind. The legislative inquiry led by Democratic senator Hollis French was said to be “planning the investigation as an ‘October Surprise’ before election day.” What exactly is nonpartisan and fair about that? In response, Palin filed a complaint against herself with the Alaska State Personnel Board, which investigates ethics complaints against executive branch employees. Going through this system will allow Palin to be fairly investigated without party intervention. Many have called her a coward, but what exactly is cowardly about refusing to be pushed around and targeted? This so called scandal has revealed more about the tricks of Obama’s campaign than it has anything about Sarah Palin’s ethics.
Sarah Palin has shown us time after time that she is capable of holding her own with the men who dominate politics. Not only does this portray much of her character but it empowers women everywhere. She is mother of five children with a 16 year reign in politics and numerous substantial achievements. What can’t she do? It’s time for Sarah Palin to make history, a second time.
Authors Note:
This is definately my first draft of the article. I didn't spend as much time as I would have liked writing it and I know there is room for a lot of improvement.
Any time of corrections or suggestions is welcome!
Monday, September 22, 2008
Op-Ed Venue/Audience
My target audience for this op-ed article will be college students. I think it has become apparent that college age students are very important in this years election. Candidates are focusing their campaigns towards this new demographic more and more every day with slogans like "Rock the Vote" and "Declare Yourself". I believe that students, like me and my friends, can make a huge impact on this election if we decide to get out there and vote. I don't want to sway students to vote for one candidate or another but I want to write something that will make them care about the election. As a student myself, I know that all it takes is a little nudge to get interested in what's going on with the election. If a student agrees with the point I am trying to make then maybe that will be enough to inspire them to vote. If a student disagrees with my point then even better. All it took for me to get interested was reading an article that I completely disagreed with. After that, all I wanted to do was research until I could prove the author wrong or prove myself wrong. College students have so much potential to be well informed voters and that is why I want to target them as my audience.
Because I want to target college students, I am going to publish my op-ed article in the Daily Skiff, the TCU Newspaper. I think this will be a good venue to reach students.
Because I want to target college students, I am going to publish my op-ed article in the Daily Skiff, the TCU Newspaper. I think this will be a good venue to reach students.
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