Question

Franklin D. Roosevelt’s First Inaugural Address (1933)
Primary Source:
"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. And I am convinced that you will again give that support to leadership in these critical days."

What is Roosevelt’s main purpose in this speech?

*
1 point
To reassure Americans and inspire confidence in recovery
To warn Americans about the threat of war in Europe
To announce tax cuts for businesses
To discourage government involvement in the economy

Answer 1

To reassure Americans and inspire confidence in recovery.

He emphasizes that the nation will endure and recover, declares "the only thing we have to fear is fear itself," and calls for public support of strong leadership to overcome the crisis.