Image courtesy of history.com's analysis of the Lincoln Douglas Debates
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President Abraham Lincoln is typically regarded as one of the best writers and speakers in American political history. His two famous speeches The Gettysburg Address and the Second Inaugural Address are literally carved in stone at the Lincoln Memorial. We maybe familiar with what he said- but what about how he said it?
Lincoln used both writing and speeches to influence his audience with extremely potent messages. However, Lincoln's logical mastery and rhetorical skills helped him structure influential and effective statements. Lincoln used logic to present his argument and convince his audience throughout his political career. |
Lincoln Speaking: The Alton DebateImage Courtesy of VisitAlton.com
Explore how Lincoln used logic and rhetoric in the seventh and final Lincoln Douglas Debate for the 1858 Senate Seat
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Lincoln Writing: The Conkling LetterImage Courtesy of the Smithsonian's Albert H. Small gallery- America's New Birth of Freedom
Explore how Lincoln used logic and rhetoric in his response to James C. Conkling declining an invitation to speak at a Union Meeting
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Modern Application and ExtensionImage Courtesy of politicususa.com
Recognize rhetorical devices and logical fallacies in contemporary American political statements.
Create your own speeches/political statements using rhetorical devices and avoiding logical fallacies |