Read the excerpt from Franklin Roosevelt’s Inaugural Address, which was given on March 4, 1933, to answer the question:

Question

"This is a day of national consecration, and I am certain that my fellow-Americans expect that on my induction into the Presidency I will address them with a candor and a decision which the present situation of our nation impels. This is preeminently the time to speak the truth, the whole truth, frankly and boldly. Nor need we shrink from honestly facing conditions in our country today. This great nation will endure as it has endured, will revive and will prosper. So first of all let me assert my firm belief that the only thing we have to fear is fear itself —nameless, unreasoning, unjustified terror which paralyzes needed efforts to convert retreat into advance. In every dark hour of our national life a leadership of frankness and vigor has met with that understanding and support of the people themselves which is essential to victory. I am convinced that you will again give that support to leadership in these critical days."
In 3–5 sentences, explain the thesis, or main idea, of Roosevelt’s Inaugural Address and evaluate whether Roosevelt supports his thesis effectively. Use specific examples and language from the text to support your ideas.

Answer 1

The main idea of Franklin Roosevelt’s Inaugural Address is that the nation must confront its challenges with honesty and courage, particularly emphasizing that fear itself is the greatest obstacle to progress. Roosevelt effectively supports this thesis by asserting, “the only thing we have to fear is fear itself,” highlighting how unreasoning terror can paralyze efforts for recovery. He calls for “frankness and vigor” in leadership, suggesting that open communication and decisiveness will earn the necessary support from the American people to overcome adversity. His conviction that the nation will “endure,” “revive,” and “prosper” reinforces his message of hope and resilience, motivating citizens to move forward collectively in a time of crisis.