Success in public life is often defined by winning elections, although many candidates that do not win go on to contribute publicly and make positive changes. Speeches are featured from those candidates that fell short of the votes needed to beat their rivals but continued to fight for their political ideals and issues
In 1960 the first televised presidential debate was broadcast featuring Vice President Richard Nixon and Senator John F. Kennedy. It instantly turned television into an important national political tool. Included are some of the classic encounters between political rivals—Reagan vs. Carter, Bill Clinton vs. George H. W. Bush vs. Ross Perot, George W. Bush vs. Al Gore, Barack Obama vs. Mitt Romney, Donald Trump vs. Hillary Clinton.
Some refer to Donald Trump as the American success story. While expanding his interests in real estate, sports, and entertainment, he made a decision to run and ultimately win the office of President of the United States. Speeches include those made before and after entering politics—announcing his candidacy, on the campaign trail, nomination acceptance, inauguration, and more.
As a response to the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, America led a global counter-terrorism campaign of limitless scope. Its military dimension involved major wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, covert operations in Yemen and elsewhere, large-scale military assistance programs for cooperative regimes, and major increases in military spending. Included are speeches from presidents, world leaders, military personnel, and others supporting and opposing the efforts.
Influenced by the political philosophy of Karl Marx, German immigrants to the US formed small political parties or trade unions based on socialist principles advocating for social justice and labor reforms. The movement continued to rebel against economic inequality. Included are speeches from both sides of the argument for a more socialized society in the United States.
JFK was the youngest man to ever become president of the United States. He took office during mounting Cold War tensions and escalating military activity in Vietnam. Included are speeches on the growing civil rights unrest, the Cuban missile crisis, his attempts to renew a drive for public service, and more.
Politicians, government officials, lobbyists, party officials, and others have been accused—and some prosecuted—of various illegal, corrupt, or unethical practices throughout the years. Political Scandals includes speeches from the accused and the accusers in the political arena.
The fortieth president of the United States, Ronald Wilson Reagan occupied the White House from 1981 to 1989. Among his many acclaimed accomplishments were the destruction of the Berlin Wall and the ultimate break-up of the Soviet Union. Speeches include his Inauguration Address (“… government is the problem”), the Brandenburg Gate (“… tear down this wall”), and many others.
Following the Supreme Court ruling in 1954 striking down the “separate but equal” doctrine, a decade and a half of civil turbulence existed. Civil rights activists used nonviolent protest and civil disobedience to bring about change. This product tells a part of that historic time with speeches from many of those attempting to achieve racial equality.
Republican Party spokespeople include presidents, advisors, and candidates. Speeches are given by Barry Goldwater, Richard Nixon, Ronald Reagan, George H. W. Bush, George W. Bush, Donald Trump, and others. Words that support the party line and are meant to win elections.
Historic Moments in Speech 