Answer:
In his address to Congress on March 15, 1965, President Lyndon B. Johnson delivered a powerful speech that became known as "We Shall Overcome". The speech was a response to the events that had unfolded in Selma, Alabama, where peaceful protesters were met with brutal violence from law enforcement officials as they marched for voting rights. Johnson's purpose was to persuade Congress and the American people to support his proposal for the Voting Rights Act of 1965, which would end the discriminatory practices that prevented African Americans from voting in many parts of the country. Through his use of evidence, persuasive language, and effective structure, Johnson builds a compelling argument that inspires change.
Johnson uses a variety of evidence to support his argument. He begins by describing the events in Selma, painting a vivid picture of the violence and injustice that occurred there. He cites the fact that only 335 of the 15,000 African Americans in Selma were registered to vote, and he notes that many had been denied the right to vote despite their qualifications. He then goes on to discuss the broader context of the civil rights movement, pointing out that the struggle for voting rights was part of a larger struggle for equality that had been ongoing for generations. Johnson uses this evidence to establish the urgency of the situation and to demonstrate the need for immediate action.
Johnson's language is also incredibly persuasive. He uses emotional appeals to stir his audience and to generate support for his proposal. For example, he repeatedly uses the phrase "we shall overcome", which had become a rallying cry for the civil rights movement. By adopting this language, Johnson aligns himself with the movement and taps into its powerful emotional resonance. He also uses language that is inclusive and unifying, emphasizing that the struggle for civil rights is not just about African Americans, but about all Americans. He speaks of a "we" that includes people of all races, religions, and backgrounds, and he emphasizes the need for unity in the face of injustice.
Johnson's structure is also effective in making his points clear, convincing, and engaging. He begins by establishing the context of the civil rights movement and the specific events in Selma. He then presents his proposal for the Voting Rights Act, explaining its provisions and its importance. He follows this with a series of rhetorical questions that emphasize the urgency of the situation and the need for action. He then concludes by calling on Congress to pass the bill, using the phrase "We shall overcome" one final time to drive home his message.
In conclusion, Lyndon B. Johnson's "We Shall Overcome" speech is a masterful example of persuasive rhetoric. Through his use of evidence, persuasive language, and effective structure, Johnson builds a compelling argument that inspires change. He uses emotional appeals to stir his audience and generate support for his proposal, and he presents his argument in a clear, concise, and engaging manner. Ultimately, his speech was successful in persuading Congress to pass the Voting Rights Act, which was a major victory for the civil rights movement and a crucial step forward in the ongoing struggle for equality in America.