The best speeches demonstrate the power of a single voice. They may be delivered by politicians, preachers, or athletes. Some such as Abraham Lincoln's Gettysburg Address or Martian Luther King Jr.'s "I have a Dream" speech, may inspire and encourage us, unite and guide us. Others, such as farewell addresses of presidents George Washington and Dwight D. Eisenhower, may warn or even alarm us. Whether they contain the polished prose and delivery of President John F. Kennedy's inaugural address or the broken English of Bartholomew Vanzetti, great speeches remind us of the power of language and the diversity of leadership skills.

Washington was the first president of the United States and one of the most important leaders in history. His role in gaining independence for the American colonies and later in unifying them under the new U. S federal government cannot be overestimated. Washington was the most revered man in the United States. A lesser person might have used power to establish a military dictatorship or to be become king. Washington sternly suppr

Abraham Lincoln, the 16th president of the United States and was considered one of the greatest men in U. S history. He was a humane, far-sighted statesman in his lifetime, and became a legend and a folk hero after his death. A superb politician, he persuaded the people, with reasoned words and thoughtful deeds, to look at him for leadership. He had a lasting influence on American political institutions, especially in setting an example of using fast action in time of national emergency.

essed all such attempts by his officers and continued to obey the weak and divided Continental Congress. He was a leading influence in persuading the states to participate in the Constitutional Convention, over which he presided, and he used his immense prestige to help gain ratification of the constitution of the United States. The famous tribute by General Henry Lee, "first in war, first in peace, and first in the hearts of his countrymen," accurately reflects the emotions that Washington's death aroused. His ability as a leader shows us that he truly deserved the title "Father of his Country."

John F. Kenne

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Missile Crisis, Bartholomew Vanzetti, Declaration Independence, Abraham Lincoln, Democratic Party, Henry Lee, John Kennedy, Constitutional Convention, Franklin Roosevelt, American Society, president united, diversity leadership,
Approximate Word count = 747
Approximate Pages = 3 (250 words per page double spaced)