President John F. Kennedy addressed the press on April 10, 1962, stressing the importance of maintaining stable prices and wages in the steel industry amidst economic difficulties. This was prompted by a 3.5 percent price hike by steel companies. The president’s forceful rhetoric aimed to boost morale among Americans and persuade the steel companies to lower their prices.
The president starts by emphasizing the significance of the moment for the country. President Kennedy brings up Berlin and Southeast Asia, which may not directly impact American citizens. However, he then proceeds to capture the emotional response from the American public by highlighting the Reservists who have to leave their homes and stating that “four were killed in the last two days in Vietnam”. These tragic incidents are mentioned to justify the steel companies’ cruelty towards their own country during a challenging period. By introducing the death and sacrifice of Americans, it effectively communicates the President’s concern for the individual struggles during that time.
In his speech, President Kennedy delves into the various economic aspects affected by the steel companies, aiming to rally support for his strong stance against them. He elucidates on the ways in which these steel aristocrats are harming America, thereby seeking to evoke a sense of anger among the population. The president highlights the alarming cost increase of “one billion dollars” to national defenses.
The author highlights how steel prices negatively impact American goods’ competitiveness in foreign markets, thereby creating difficulties. By emphasizing that steel prices have an impact on every individual American, the author portrays a sense of animosity towards the steel industry.
President Kennedy’s speech concludes with a factual approach, which contrasts with his previous appeals to emotions. He aims to convince the skeptics by offering specific information to support his main argument. The President backs up his points by referencing credible organizations such as the “Acting Commissioner for the Bureau of Labor” and “the Wall Street Journal”. He highlights the greed of steel companies by using the Wall Street Journal to showcase their expansion of cash dividends to 600 million dollars. Additionally, President Kennedy demonstrates respect by mentioning other organizations such as the Steel Workers Union. By presenting factual evidence, the President counters the actions of a few large corporations who have chosen to raise prices.
President Kennedy uses a combination of a forceful tone, emotional appeal, and facts to criticize and confront major steel companies. His speech aims to highlight the unjust actions of these companies during difficult times for the nation.
