barack obama victory speech 2008 analysis essay

Analysis of Obama’s Victory Speech

The presidential victory speech delivered by Barack Obama who is the president to be was held on November 4, 2008, in Grant Park, Chicago. It is about his won election for the office as the president. I will take a closer look on how Obama emphasizes his speech with stylistic devices. The speech is divided into four parts. The first part is from ll. 1-26, the second from ll. 27- 70, the third from ll. 71-9 and the last from ll. 95-105.

He tries to get the attention by addressing the audience (“If there is anyone out there... ”, l. 1). In addition to that he makes many anaphoras (“who still”, ll. 1,3,4) to underline the importance of the American Dream to the Nation. With an enumeration (ll. 14-17) he shows that everyone not only the rich but also the poor have something to say and have a choice. In the middle section of the speech Obama uses personifications (“... the enormity of the task that lies ahead. ”, l. 40) to point out the importance of the things that have to be done.

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With an enumeration (“l. 45) he involves the audience to show them which work they have to expect. Another point is that he uses repetitions (“I will” , ll. 51, 52, 53) and (“There”, l. 50) to make the listeners understand that he will be there for everyone and that he will never leave them with no hope. With a metaphor (“... if Americas beacon still burns as bright-... ”, l. 67) he tries to give the people hope that America will always be the same strong Nation as it was.

The third part starts with an example of a women (ll. 3-79) with which Obama wants the listeners identify with him and wants to show that he is just a human being as everyone else. After the example fallows an enumeration (ll. 80- 82) which emphasizes the strengths with which the women stands for her country because there were many things which she had seen but it is an example which says that she never lost her faith and that everyone else should act like her. The repetition (“New”, l. 86) shows that Obama wants to create something new and wants the audience to feel so, too.

He arouses the audience`s emotions in giving the anaphora “Yes we can” (ll. 82, 84, 86, 88, 90, 94, 104) which he uses very often to stabilize the feeling of triumph in the listeners and to make them want to feel supported that they want to and can change something. With another enumerations (ll. 91-92) Obama wants to tell everyone what happened in the world which was from importance and that this little thing a women did (“ And in this year, in this election, she touched her finger on a screen, and cast her vote,... ”, ll. 92. 3) is as important as moving events in the world`s history.

The last part is emphasized by Obama because he gives rhetorical questions (“…, what change will they see? ”, l. 97, “What progress will we have made? ”, ll. 97-98) that should make the people think about what they did, what they changed and what they will change. In the last sentences Obama uses many anaphoras (“ This is our”, l. 99), and repetitions (“to”, ll. 99, 100, 101, “we”, l. 102) to give the importance of his last words and to make the readers listen to what he has to say what is important.

He tries to wake the readers up and wants to give the message of of his speech across. That nobody has to be afraid to loose because if he tries he can win. In the last sentence he thanks the audience in the way if saying that God watches everyone. To say this he uses another repetition (“God”, l. 105) to make the audience clear that he really wants the best for everyone. To conclude Obama wants to make his speech understood and he wants to get his message across by using many stylistic devices and examples where he always refers to the American Dream.

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Yes we can! Analysis of Barack Obama's speech

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One of the best speeches of the beginning of the 21st century is the speech of Barack Obama after his first victory in the elections in 2008. The recording of this speech on YouTube got more than two million views, and many Americans are still quoting it. Let's see what made this speech so memorable.

Contrasts are one of the strongest techniques that good speakers use. They help you to keep the audience's attention throughout the performance. These can be chronological contrasts: the opposition of the past and present or present and future; emotional contrasts: juxtaposing jokes to serious facts or any other contrasts. In Obama's speech, you can find many examples of this technique. Thus, almost at the very beginning of his speech Barack presents two contrasts: "diversity of the United States" and "unity of the United States":

It's the answer spoken by young and old, rich and poor, Democrat and Republican, black, white, Hispanic, Asian, Native American, gay, straight, disabled and not disabled. Americans who sent a message to the world that we have never been just a collection of individuals or a collection of red states and blue states. We are, and always will be, the United States of America.

Here are some more:

…our stories are singular, but our destiny is shared… To those who would tear the world down: We will defeat you. To those who seek peace and security: We support you.

Repetitions

Repetition of phrases, repetition of words at the beginning and the end of the sentence are interesting, though not often used to create speech dynamics. Repetitions link parts of speech into a single whole, repeating the phrase and emphasizing it, you give people the slogan they will remember and chant. For example, the phrase "Yes we can", the main slogan of Mr. Obama's election, was repeated six times in this speech. Other examples of repetitions include:

It's been a long time coming, but tonight, because of what we did on this date in this election at this defining moment change has come to America. …a government of the people , by the people , and for the people has not perished from the Earth. I have never been more hopeful than I am tonight that we will get there. I promise you, we as a people will get there. And, above all, I will ask you to join in the work of remaking this nation, the only way it's been done in America for 221 years — block by block, brick by brick, calloused hand by calloused hand. This is our chance to answer that call. This is our moment. This is our time.

Audience segmentation

This technique is present in almost all the speeches of Barack Obama. Presidents of the United States, like Ronald Reagan for example, knowingly loved to build their speech on mentioning of completely different values and views. After all, when addressing the American people it is difficult to establish contact with all at once, it is necessary to find something that will resonate with each group of people, that will be about them. Listening to this speech, you feel — it's about me. As if the president was addressing you directly, understanding your problems. The emotional distance shrinks immediately, you begin to empathize with such a seemingly distant president. Mr. Obama divided his listeners into subgroups, and addressed each of them:

It's the answer spoken by young and old, rich and poor, Democrat and Republican, black, white, Hispanic, Asian, Native American, gay, straight, disabled and not disabled. And to those Americans whose support I have yet to earn. And to all those watching tonight from beyond our shores, from parliaments and palaces, to those who are huddled around radios in the forgotten corners of the world. And to all those who have wondered if America's beacon still burns as bright.

Audience is your hero

"Make the audience your hero" — this is what we say to our speakers when preparing them for performances. After all, where there aren't any listeners, there is no performance. As you can see, Obama did not devote his victory primarily to his constituents in vain:

But above all, I will never forget who this victory truly belongs to. It belongs to you. It belongs to you. This is your victory. And that cannot happen if we go back to the way things were. It can't happen without you, without a new spirit of service, a new spirit of sacrifice.

Further, Barack Obama said that without those who did not vote for him, he would not have been able to cope:

And to those Americans whose support I have yet to earn, I may not have won your vote tonight, but I hear your voices. I need your help. And I will be your president, too.

The oldest way to transmit information is in the form of stories. We love stories because they are very important in the transfer of experience. Before written speech was created, the entire experience of mankind was transmitted through history. In the speeches. You need stories to establish contact with the audience, to lead the audience to a conclusion or even to create a contrast. At the end of the speech, Barack Obama tells the story of one of his voters — 106-year-old dark-skinned Anna Nixon Cooper from Atlanta. ‍ Interestingly, Obama uses other methods in this story. For example, he built a platform of shared values and showed that the hero of history is the same person as any other voter: ‍ ‍

She's a lot like the millions of others who stood in line to make their voice heard in this election except for one thing: Ann Nixon Cooper is 106 years old.

Such a "unique" age of the heroine allowed Obama to create a contrast between past and future:

She was born just a generation past slavery; a time when there were no cars on the road or planes in the sky; when someone like her couldn't vote for two reasons — because she was a woman and because of the color of her skin. And this year, in this election, she touched her finger to a screen, and cast her vote, because after 106 years in America, through the best of times and the darkest of hours, she knows how America can change.

Barack Obama repeated the main slogan of his political campaign 6 times while telling this story:

Yes we can.

Using these techniques will not automatically make you a good speaker. First of all, every speech, as well as every presentation, should have a big idea. And it does not matter whether it is a presidential speech after a victory in the elections or a performance at a conference — there must be a clear idea, traced through the whole presentation, and this idea should bring the value to the audience. We wish you every success with great ideas and their scattering!

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Further notes

Sections of the speech may be characterized as:

• Celebration

The overall approach is to create an inclusive sense of history where individuals make personal sacrifice in order to be a part of a great revival.

The history as told includes the longer American history but with particular leverage on African American history, where poverty was and is well known, and where struggles in living memory led to significant change.

Inclusion reaches out to all Americans, including Republicans and diverse segments. The story is cast as individual action towards a common purpose, creating a strong sense of belonging

Martin Luther King's 'I have a dream' speech

Story plots , Communication , Argument

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Yes We Can Victory Speech 2008 by Barack Obama

Speech worth reading

Key learnings in this blog are:

• Hope and Change : Captures the spirit of hope and the promise of change that defined his campaign.
• Unity and Diversity : Emphasizes the strength found in unity and the rich diversity of America.
• Historic Achievement : Marks a historic moment in American politics and society.
• Vision for the Future : Outlines a future of possibilities, challenges to overcome, and a path forward together.

Have you ever pondered over the power of a well-delivered speech, particularly one that has catalyzed a shift in a nation’s dynamics?

Consider Barack Obama’s 2008 victory speech, famously known as the ‘Yes We Can’ speech. It’s a remarkable blend of political savvy, emotional appeal, and artful rhetoric that not only captivated America but echoed around the globe.

As you delve into the depths of this discourse, you’ll explore its profound influence, dissect the resonating phrases, and perhaps gain a fresh perspective on the man who, with this speech, stepped onto the world stage as a beacon of optimism amid challenging times.

So, are you ready to join this intriguing journey of words and wisdom?

On the historic night of November 4, 2008, Barack Obama, reflecting upon his improbable candidacy, expressed profound gratitude towards his campaign staff and volunteers, recognizing their tireless efforts that played a pivotal role in his victory. This wasn’t just an ordinary win, it was a momentous occasion.

For the first time, an African-American was about to lead the most powerful country in the world. The background of this historic night was filled with anticipation, hope, and a sense of victory that transcended beyond the boundaries of a typical election.

Obama’s journey to win the election was a testament to the power of democracy. He acknowledged his opponents, including Senator McCain, and expressed his willingness to work with them, emphasizing the need for unity and diversity. His speech was filled with anecdotes that highlighted the journey of the American people, such as the story of a 106-year-old African-American voter.

The challenges ahead for the U.S were recognized, but the speech was imbued with hope for a better future. The night was a testament to the strength of the American spirit, and the possibilities that lay ahead for those willing to believe in change.

Key Takeaways

Here are 4 key takeaways from Barack Obama’s ‘Yes We Can’ Victory Speech that emphasize hope, unity, change, and the power of collective action in shaping a better future

• November 4, 2008, marked a historic moment in American history
• The first time an African-American was elected to lead the country
• Obama’s journey to victory showcased the power of democracy
• Obama’s victory emphasized the strength of democracy

Barack Obama’s election marks a historic moment, embodying the American Dream and signaling a collective advancement for democracy. He acknowledges pressing national challenges, urging a unified approach to tackle them.

Expressing gratitude to his supporters, Obama emphasizes that victory is just the beginning, calling for active civic engagement to fulfill America’s promise. This speech encapsulates a pivotal transition, celebrating progress while rallying for the hard work ahead.

Explore Obama’s address, a blend of acknowledgment, challenge, and a call to action for a better future:

Historic Victory

In his address, Barack Obama emphasizes the historical milestone his election represents, framing it as a vivid demonstration of America’s foundational promise—that all things are conceivable in a nation built on the principles of freedom and opportunity. This moment is portrayed as a reflection of the enduring vitality of the American Dream, a confirmation that the ideals of the founding fathers continue to resonate and inspire.

Obama’s victory is presented not just as a personal achievement, but as a collective triumph for American democracy, symbolizing progress and the nation’s capacity for renewal and change. His reference to this achievement as a beacon of hope underscores the inspirational power of this historic event, reinforcing the belief in the potential for positive transformation through the democratic process.

This acknowledgment of the election’s significance extends beyond mere celebration; it is an invocation of the shared values and aspirations that define the American experience. By highlighting this achievement, Obama seeks to unify the nation, reminding citizens of their common heritage and the collective journey towards realizing America’s full promise.

This perspective fosters a sense of inclusion and collective responsibility, setting the stage for a presidency that aims to bridge divides and mobilize the country towards common goals.

Acknowledgment of Challenges

Barack Obama’s candid recognition of the myriad challenges confronting the nation serves as a sobering counterbalance to the jubilation of his historic victory. By openly addressing the wars, economic turmoil, and environmental crises facing the United States, Obama underscores the complexity and gravity of the task ahead.

This acknowledgment is crucial, as it tempers the euphoria of the electoral win with a realistic appraisal of the national and global issues that require immediate and concerted action. Obama’s approach reflects a commitment to transparency and realism, preparing the nation for the difficult journey towards resolution and improvement.

This moment of acknowledgment is not just about listing the hurdles; it’s a strategic effort to galvanize the American people, fostering a collective resolve to confront and overcome these challenges. By laying out the stark realities, Obama aims to rally the nation’s spirit of resilience and ingenuity, emphasizing that while the road ahead may be fraught with obstacles, the capacity to surmount them lies within the collective will and effort of the American people.

This blend of honesty and optimism is a hallmark of Obama’s leadership style, seeking to inspire action and hope even in the face of daunting challenges.

Tribute to Supporters and Call to Action

In expressing gratitude to his supporters, campaign staff, and family, Barack Obama highlights the communal nature of his electoral victory. This gesture of appreciation serves to acknowledge the collective effort and sacrifices that underpinned his campaign, reinforcing the theme of unity and shared endeavor.

However, Obama swiftly transitions this moment of thanks into a clarion call to action, emphasizing that the real work lies ahead. This shift underscores the notion that electoral victory is not an end in itself but a means to achieve broader, more substantive goals.

Obama’s call to action is a direct appeal to the American populace to engage actively in the nation-building process, underscoring the critical role of civic engagement in realizing the promise of change his campaign championed. This appeal to civic duty is pivotal, as it extends the responsibility for national progress to every American, urging a shift from passive observation to active participation.

By framing the victory as a starting point for transformative change, Obama seeks to harness the momentum and enthusiasm of his election into a sustained movement towards achieving the nation’s ideals. This call to action serves as a foundational element of his presidency, aiming to cultivate a culture of engagement, responsibility, and collective effort in addressing the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

In Barack Obama’s 2008 ‘Yes We Can Victory’ speech, there are 3 key learnings. Let’s delve into each:

Embracing Complexity and Common Humanity

Obama’s narrative reinforces the importance of recognizing and valuing the diverse contributions that forge progress:

• Acknowledgment of Diverse Contributions : Highlights the collective achievements made possible by the efforts of individuals across the spectrum of society, showcasing the unity in diversity that propels societal advancement.
• The Power of Shared Hope : Illustrates how a common thread of hope can bridge differences, fostering unity among people with varied backgrounds and beliefs towards shared goals.

These principles underscore the significance of collective effort and shared aspirations in driving meaningful change, emphasizing the strength found in diversity and unity.

The Role of Active Participation

Obama underscores the essential role of civic engagement and personal involvement in shaping a better society:

• Civic Engagement as a Duty : Positions active participation in democratic processes as a fundamental responsibility, necessary for the continual betterment of the nation.
• Empowerment Through Engagement : Serves as a powerful reminder that true empowerment is achieved through active involvement in addressing societal challenges and engaging in the political landscape.

This perspective highlights the critical connection between individual engagement and collective empowerment, advocating for a proactive approach to participation as a cornerstone of democratic society.

Legacy and the Future

Obama’s reflections on legacy and vision for the future emphasize the responsibility to foster progress for future generations and the potential for unity in overcoming challenges:

• Responsibility to Future Generations : Stresses the importance of actions today on the well-being of future generations, advocating for a forward-thinking commitment to progress and justice.
• Vision for a United America : Presents a hopeful outlook for an America that is cohesive in its diversity, emphasizing that unity and collective determination are key to surmounting obstacles.

Through these insights, Obama articulates a compelling vision of responsibility towards future generations and the power of a united society to achieve transformative progress, highlighting the enduring impact of collective action and shared purpose.

Barack Obama’s 2008 ‘Yes We Can Victory’ Speech

If there is anyone out there who still doubts that America is a place where all things are possible; who still wonders if the dream of our founders is alive in our time; who still questions the power of our democracy, tonight is your answer.

It’s the answer told by lines that stretched around schools and churches in numbers this nation has never seen; by people who waited three hours and four hours, many for the very first time in their lives, because they believed that this time must be different; that their voice could be that difference.

It’s the answer spoken by young and old, rich and poor, Democrat and Republican, black, white, Latino, Asian, Native American, gay, straight, disabled and not disabled — Americans who sent a message to the world that we have never been a collection of red states and blue states; we are, and always will be, the United States of America.

It’s the answer that led those who have been told for so long by so many to be cynical, and fearful, and doubtful of what we can achieve to put their hands on the arc of history and bend it once more toward the hope of a better day.

It’s been a long time coming, but tonight, because of what we did on this day, in this election, at this defining moment, change has come to America.

I just received a very gracious call from Sen. McCain. He fought long and hard in this campaign, and he’s fought even longer and harder for the country he loves. He has endured sacrifices for America that most of us cannot begin to imagine, and we are better off for the service rendered by this brave and selfless leader. I congratulate him and Gov. Palin for all they have achieved, and I look forward to working with them to renew this nation’s promise in the months ahead.

I want to thank my partner in this journey, a man who campaigned from his heart and spoke for the men and women he grew up with on the streets of Scranton and rode with on that train home to Delaware, the vice-president-elect of the United States, Joe Biden.

I would not be standing here tonight without the unyielding support of my best friend for the last 16 years, the rock of our family and the love of my life, our nation’s next first lady, Michelle Obama. Sasha and Malia, I love you both so much, and you have earned the new puppy that’s coming with us to the White House. And while she’s no longer with us, I know my grandmother is watching, along with the family that made me who I am. I miss them tonight, and know that my debt to them is beyond measure.

To my campaign manager, David Plouffe; my chief strategist, David Axelrod; and the best campaign team ever assembled in the history of politics — you made this happen, and I am forever grateful for what you’ve sacrificed to get it done.

But above all, I will never forget who this victory truly belongs to — it belongs to you.

I was never the likeliest candidate for this office. We didn’t start with much money or many endorsements. Our campaign was not hatched in the halls of Washington — it began in the backyards of Des Moines and the living rooms of Concord and the front porches of Charleston.

It was built by working men and women who dug into what little savings they had to give $5 and $10 and $20 to this cause. It grew strength from the young people who rejected the myth of their generation’s apathy; who left their homes and their families for jobs that offered little pay and less sleep; from the not-so-young people who braved the bitter cold and scorching heat to knock on the doors of perfect strangers; from the millions of Americans who volunteered and organized, and proved that more than two centuries later, a government of the people, by the people and for the people has not perished from this earth. This is your victory.

I know you didn’t do this just to win an election, and I know you didn’t do it for me. You did it because you understand the enormity of the task that lies ahead. For even as we celebrate tonight, we know the challenges that tomorrow will bring are the greatest of our lifetime — two wars, a planet in peril, the worst financial crisis in a century. Even as we stand here tonight, we know there are brave Americans waking up in the deserts of Iraq and the mountains of Afghanistan to risk their lives for us. T

here are mothers and fathers who will lie awake after their children fall asleep and wonder how they’ll make the mortgage, or pay their doctor’s bills, or save enough for college. There is new energy to harness and new jobs to be created; new schools to build and threats to meet and alliances to repair.

The road ahead will be long. Our climb will be steep. We may not get there in one year, or even one term, but America — I have never been more hopeful than I am tonight that we will get there. I promise you: We as a people will get there.

There will be setbacks and false starts. There are many who won’t agree with every decision or policy I make as president, and we know that government can’t solve every problem. But I will always be honest with you about the challenges we face. I will listen to you, especially when we disagree. And, above all, I will ask you join in the work of remaking this nation the only way it’s been done in America for 221 years — block by block, brick by brick, callused hand by callused hand.

What began 21 months ago in the depths of winter must not end on this autumn night. This victory alone is not the change we seek — it is only the chance for us to make that change. And that cannot happen if we go back to the way things were. It cannot happen without you.

So let us summon a new spirit of patriotism; of service and responsibility where each of us resolves to pitch in and work harder and look after not only ourselves, but each other. Let us remember that if this financial crisis taught us anything, it’s that we cannot have a thriving Wall Street while Main Street suffers. In this country, we rise or fall as one nation — as one people.

Let us resist the temptation to fall back on the same partisanship and pettiness and immaturity that has poisoned our politics for so long.

Let us remember that it was a man from this state who first carried the banner of the Republican Party to the White House — a party founded on the values of self-reliance, individual liberty and national unity. Those are values we all share, and while the Democratic Party has won a great victory tonight, we do so with a measure of humility and determination to heal the divides that have held back our progress.

As Lincoln said to a nation far more divided than ours, “We are not enemies, but friends… Though passion may have strained, it must not break our bonds of affection.” And, to those Americans whose support I have yet to earn, I may not have won your vote, but I hear your voices, I need your help, and I will be your president, too.

And to all those watching tonight from beyond our shores, from parliaments and palaces to those who are huddled around radios in the forgotten corners of our world — our stories are singular, but our destiny is shared, and a new dawn of American leadership is at hand.

To those who would tear this world down: We will defeat you. To those who seek peace and security: We support you. And to all those who have wondered if America’s beacon still burns as bright: Tonight, we proved once more that the true strength of our nation comes not from the might of our arms or the scale of our wealth, but from the enduring power of our ideals: democracy, liberty, opportunity and unyielding hope.

For that is the true genius of America — that America can change. Our union can be perfected. And what we have already achieved gives us hope for what we can and must achieve tomorrow.

This election had many firsts and many stories that will be told for generations. But one that’s on my mind tonight is about a woman who cast her ballot in Atlanta. She’s a lot like the millions of others who stood in line to make their voice heard in this election, except for one thing: Ann Nixon Cooper is 106 years old.

She was born just a generation past slavery; a time when there were no cars on the road or planes in the sky; when someone like her couldn’t vote for two reasons — because she was a woman and because of the color of her skin.

And tonight, I think about all that she’s seen throughout her century in America — the heartache and the hope; the struggle and the progress; the times we were told that we can’t and the people who pressed on with that American creed: Yes, we can.

At a time when women’s voices were silenced and their hopes dismissed, she lived to see them stand up and speak out and reach for the ballot. Yes, we can.

When there was despair in the Dust Bowl and depression across the land, she saw a nation conquer fear itself with a New Deal, new jobs and a new sense of common purpose. Yes, we can.

When the bombs fell on our harbor and tyranny threatened the world, she was there to witness a generation rise to greatness and a democracy was saved. Yes, we can.

She was there for the buses in Montgomery, the hoses in Birmingham, a bridge in Selma and a preacher from Atlanta who told a people that “We Shall Overcome.” Yes, we can.

A man touched down on the moon, a wall came down in Berlin, a world was connected by our own science and imagination. And this year, in this election, she touched her finger to a screen and cast her vote, because after 106 years in America, through the best of times and the darkest of hours, she knows how America can change. Yes, we can.

America, we have come so far. We have seen so much. But there is so much more to do. So tonight, let us ask ourselves: If our children should live to see the next century; if my daughters should be so lucky to live as long as Ann Nixon Cooper, what change will they see? What progress will we have made?

This is our chance to answer that call. This is our moment. This is our time — to put our people back to work and open doors of opportunity for our kids; to restore prosperity and promote the cause of peace; to reclaim the American Dream and reaffirm that fundamental truth that out of many, we are one; that while we breathe, we hope, and where we are met with cynicism, and doubt, and those who tell us that we can’t, we will respond with that timeless creed that sums up the spirit of a people: Yes, we can.

Thank you, God bless you, and may God bless the United States of America.

You’ve journeyed through the remarkable night of Obama’s ‘Yes We Can’ speech, dissected its powerful content, and felt its ripples across America and the globe. It’s not just a speech, it’s the resounding echo of unity , hope , and resilience that transformed a nation.

The impact of this speech isn’t just historic, it’s monumental! Now, let’s carry its legacy, harnessing the power of innovation and unity for a brighter future. After all, we’re all in this together.

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Imagine you’re standing at the edge of a cliff, ready to jump into the unknown abyss below. That’s how Jia Jiang felt when he began...

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