"Inaugural Address of John F. Kennedy"

by President John F. Kennedy

And so, my fellow Americans: ask not what your country can do for you—ask what you can do for your country.

My fellow citizens of the world: ask not what America will do for you, but what together we can do for the freedom of man.

Finally, whether you are citizens of America or citizens of the world, ask of us here the same high standards of strength and sacrifice which we ask of you. With a good conscience our only sure reward, with history the final judge of our deeds, let us go forth to lead the land we love, asking His blessing and His help, but knowing that here on earth God’s work must truly be our own.



John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum

Question
Use the excerpt from President John F. Kennedy’s 1961 inauguration speech to answer the question.

President Kennedy employs repetition in this excerpt for what purpose?

(1 point)
Responses

to deliver a call of action to his audience
to deliver a call of action to his audience

to stress the importance of the moment
to stress the importance of the moment

to persuade his audience to accept his position
to persuade his audience to accept his position

to create unity among all of his listeners

1 answer

President Kennedy employs repetition in this excerpt primarily to deliver a call of action to his audience. The repeated phrases encourage individuals—both Americans and citizens of the world—to think about their responsibilities and contributions, fostering a sense of active participation and collective effort.