Influential Presidential Speeches in U.S. History

Throughout the 250 years since America’s founding, a few presidents have significantly shaped its history. Their speeches are embedded in our memory, appearing in places such as monuments and popular media. Here are six presidential speeches that have had enduring impacts.

George Washington’s Farewell Address – Sept. 19, 1796

George Washington, the first President of the United States, set the tradition of presidential farewell addresses. Although he didn’t deliver this speech publicly, he shared it through the press. In his address, he discussed his decision to serve only two terms. Washington said, “Every day the increasing weight of years admonishes me more and more that the shade of retirement is as necessary to me as it will be welcome.”

Concerned by the growing divisions within the young nation, Washington urged Americans to recognize their shared values despite differences. He warned against factionalism, stating, “It agitates the community with ill-founded jealousies and false alarms, kindles the animosity of one part against another, foments occasionally riot and insurrection.”

Since 1893, the U.S. Senate has honored Washington’s message by reading the address annually on his birthday.

Monroe Doctrine – Dec. 2, 1823

By 1817, South America’s battle for independence from Spain had progressed significantly. U.S. President James Monroe maintained a neutral position until France’s invasion of Spain led him to voice concerns over European intervention in the Americas. In his speech to Congress, Monroe declared that any European attempt to extend influence in the Western Hemisphere would be dangerous to U.S. peace and safety.

The Monroe Doctrine was invoked by several presidents in the 20th century, notably by John F. Kennedy during the Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962. President Trump referred to the policy when discussing actions against Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro.

Gettysburg Address – Nov. 19, 1863

President Abraham Lincoln delivered the Gettysburg Address at the dedication of the Soldiers’ National Cemetery in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. This brief speech paid homage to Union soldiers who fell during the Civil War’s bloodiest battle. Lincoln urged the living to continue fighting to preserve “government of the people, by the people, for the people.”

The triumph at Gettysburg was pivotal, leading to the Confederacy’s defeat in 1865. The Gettysburg Address remains iconic and is featured at the Lincoln Memorial.

FDR’s First Inaugural Address – March 4, 1933

Franklin D. Roosevelt’s election victory heralded change during the Great Depression. Facing an economic crisis, Roosevelt spoke candidly in his inaugural address, affirming it was “preeminently the time to speak the truth, the whole truth, frankly and boldly.”

He inspired hope, asserting, “The only thing we have to fear is fear itself.” Roosevelt detailed his New Deal plan, emphasizing strong executive action. His success led to an unprecedented four-term presidency, later limited by the 22nd Amendment.

LBJ’s ‘American Promise’ Speech – March 15, 1965

Following the Bloody Sunday attacks in Selma, Alabama, President Lyndon B. Johnson addressed Congress urging passage of the Voting Rights Act. Johnson condemned the violence and emphasized the need for voting protection.

“Because it is not just Negroes, but really it is all of us, who must overcome the crippling legacy of bigotry and injustice,” he said, concluding with “And we shall overcome.” Johnson signed the Voting Rights Act into law five months later.

Nixon’s Resignation Speech – Aug. 8, 1974

Amid declining support due to the Watergate scandal, President Richard Nixon decided to resign. Since revelations about his role in covering up the scandal significantly threatened impeachment, Nixon announced his resignation, stating he “must put the interests of America first.”

Vice President Gerald Ford assumed the presidency, stating, “Our long national nightmare is over.” Nixon remains the sole U.S. president to resign.