Consider the time and setting of FDR's speech, which outlines his vision for the four fundamental freedoms of humans. In January 1941, war had already broken out in Europe and Asia. In anticipation of US involvement, Roosevelt began preparing to assemble a "arsenal of democracy" and refocus the nation's industrial capacity on the production of weapons of mass destruction.
Throughout the preceding year, there are clues that Roosevelt was attempting to explain WHY his country needed to prepare for war when the front lines were so far away.
Roosevelt aimed to create a morally superior foundation for what would undoubtedly come by identifying those Four Freedoms.
One of the most well-known artists and illustrators of the time, Norman Rockwell, understood the concept right away. His depictions of an American-rooted perspective of the actual meaning of each freedom were extremely well received, touring the country in highly well attended displays and being written about in the prominent periodicals of the time. In a very genuine way, Rockwell gave words that may have been buried in political or war discourse a humanity and resonance.
The Four Freedoms and Norman Rockwell's artwork proved crucial in capturing the essence of "why we fight" in America. They would not only forcefully support the country throughout World War Two, but they were also seen as a representation of the opposing philosophies of the Cold War.
Thanks!
- Eddie