In analyzing Roosevelt’s “The Great Arsenal of Democracy” speech, it becomes evident that throughout American history, various presidents have occupied the White House, some being successful while others not so much. The distinguished presidents have consistently exhibited moral values and a strong belief system. President Franklin Delano Roosevelt, specifically during World War II, demonstrated his American ethos significantly. In his address to the nation about national security, Roosevelt effectively integrates American ideals and the principles articulated in the Declaration of Independence, which further enhances his credibility and highlights his virtuous character. Moreover, Roosevelt emphasizes the significance of free trade with other nations, a fundamental principle highlighted in the Declaration. Hence, Roosevelt’s speech primarily revolves around national security – an essential aspect guaranteed in the Declaration of Independence itself.
According to Roosevelt, the request from the people of Europe is not for America to fight their battles, but rather for the necessary tools of war such as planes, tanks, guns, and freighters, which will empower them to fight for both their freedom and our security (Roosevelt 438). He emphasizes that America cannot simply ignore the events unfolding in the east, as they will eventually have a direct impact on our own homeland.
He stresses the importance of America exercising its right to engage in free trade with other nations by providing our allies with war supplies, indirectly supporting those fighting for democracy and creating what he calls an “arsenal of democracy.” Roosevelt also refers to the right to protection from foreign mercenaries, as Nazi Germany had taken over several independent countries and threatened to use Europe’s power to dominate the Western hemisphere. In light of this undeniable threat, it can be firmly stated that the United States cannot promote peace until the aggressor nations demonstrate a clear intention to abandon their aspirations of world domination. Roosevelt boosts his credibility by referencing the Declaration, our founding document, and also appeals to American pride and freedom.
In his speech, Roosevelt shows his determination to oppose Germany’s dictatorial government and keep fighting until their goal of global dominance is eliminated. Furthermore, he highlights the importance of the Declaration’s principles concerning the rights to life, liberty, and happiness. This specific appeal greatly enhances his credibility as it aligns with every American’s aspiration for the “American dream” and the freedom ensured by the Declaration. “This is not a fireside chat about war.
The speaker discusses national security, emphasizing that the essence of the President’s role is to protect current and future generations from engaging in a desperate war to safeguard American independence and all the values it represents to us and our descendants” (Roosevelt 433). This assurance of a secure and protected future instills a sense of motivation among Americans to support our allies in defeating Nazi Germany, due to the imminent threat faced by the United States.
President Roosevelt expresses his motivation and establishes his ethos as a caring and noble leader by showing concern for the future of America and future generations. He builds his credibility by aligning with the ideals of the Declaration of Independence and American beliefs and values beyond those mentioned in the Declaration. Roosevelt specifically emphasizes courage and realism in addressing the challenges faced by the nation.
“We met the issue of 1933 with courage and realism. We face this new crisis, this new threat to the security of our nation, with the same courage and realism” (Roosevelt 434).
In his speech, the president refers to the issue of 1933, which was the great depression – a time in America’s history marked by severe economic recession. He emphasizes the importance of realism and courage in overcoming this crisis. The president aims to establish a connection between the current threat to national security and the past economic recession, highlighting the grave mistake of underestimating Germany. He argues that merely ignoring the impending danger will not solve the problem; rather, it masks it temporarily. The president emphasizes that facing the situation head-on and realistically is the only path to overcome it. His credibility is enhanced by his leadership role and recognition that passive hope alone will not stop Germany.
We need to show support for those who defend democratic ideals. Strangely enough, Roosevelt contradicts the main purpose of the Declaration of Independence by stating that Great Britain, the nation we fought against for our freedom, has now become our closest ally. Roosevelt ponders if there is any reason to be afraid of an attack in the Americas as long as a free Britain remains our most powerful naval neighbor in the Atlantic (Roosevelt 435).
He informs Americans that Britain’s navy is highly powerful, and by supplying their naval fleets, we are defending both our nation and democracy. While forming an alliance with Britain was unimaginable in the pre-twentieth century era, this significantly enhances Roosevelt’s credibility as it demonstrates his intelligence and understanding of military tactics, emphasizing the importance of a strong defense. Moreover, it reflects his patriotism and willingness to undertake any necessary measures to preserve our freedom and security within the United States.
Another factor that adds to Roosevelt’s credibility is his optimistic and patriotic view of the United States. He expresses hope for peace and the defense of the nation’s civilization, as well as the potential for a better future civilization. Roosevelt firmly believes that the American people are now more determined than ever to ramp up production of defensive tools and confront any threats to democracy (Roosevelt 441).
According to Roosevelt (441), he showcases his optimistic perspective on America’s destiny and the triumph of democracy in both America and Europe. By doing so, he reinforces his image as a fervent champion for America and a powerful ally for all the principles that the United States embodies. Roosevelt suggests that we should tackle our obligations with equal resolve, immediacy, love for our country, and readiness to make sacrifices as if we were engaged in warfare.
Since the beginning of American history, patriotism and sacrifice have been evident whenever our freedom has been in danger. Every major obstacle we have overcome in American history has been due to sacrifice and a commitment to upholding the democratic ideals that shape this country. Roosevelt implores the American people to fully commit themselves to the goal of creating a strong democracy and display their loyalty to the international community, thus reaffirming America’s position as the leading global power.
By calling for patriotism and sacrifice, the speaker demonstrates his credibility and highlights the American can-do mentality on which this country was built. This speech serves as a powerful motivator for Americans to create the “great arsenal of democracy” and ensure the permanent defeat of the Axis powers, safeguarding both European and American democracy.
President Franklin Delano Roosevelt’s “Great Arsenal of Democracy” address revealed the United States’ realization that the threat posed by the Axis powers was more imminent than originally believed. In his speech, Roosevelt urged the nation to make significant sacrifices and come together in a common mission to transform America into an “arsenal of democracy.” By encouraging the nation to support those in conflict with Germany’s dictatorial regime, he demonstrated his compassion, intelligence, and optimism as a president. Roosevelt’s address was filled with American ideals and moral values that both inspired and reassured the country during the intense period of World War II.
Works Cited: Roosevelt, Franklin Delano. “The Great Arsenal of Democracy.” Language Matters. Third ed. Southlake, Texas: Fountainhead, 2010. 433-42. Print.
