Final answer:
Theodore Roosevelt's speeches used specific diction and language to deliver messages of urgency, persuasion, and foreign policy strength. The rhythmic cadence of his "Day of Infamy" speech instilled a sense of danger, while his fireside chats used soothing, familial language to foster community support for the New Deal.
Step-by-step explanation:
The diction and language in Theodore Roosevelt's speeches are integral in delivering his intended message to the nation and the world. For instance, in Roosevelt's "Day of Infamy" speech, he uses rhythmic cadence to impart a sense of urgency and danger following the attack on Pearl Harbor. This choice of words and delivery was designed to persuade Congress and the American people of the need to declare war on Japan, effectively transitioning the United States into World War II. FDR's fireside chats, on the other hand, utilized language that was soothing and familial. He addressed the listeners as equals, which fostered a sense of community and shared purpose. The language used in these speeches was carefully chosen to promote the New Deal agenda by persuading listeners with a mix of optimism and direct appeals for support. The phrase "fireside chats" itself evokes an image of warmth and intimacy, conducive to open and honest communication. Theodore Roosevelt's foreign policy speech took on a more strategic and forceful tone, encapsulating his belief in the "speak softly and carry a big stick" philosophy. His word choices implied that military strength and the willingness to use it were deterring forces, thereby allowing for a more diplomatic approach to foreign policy without actual conflict.