John F. Kennedy's inaugural address, delivered on January 20, 1961, is widely regarded as one of the most powerful and influential speeches in American history. In his speech, Kennedy sought to inspire and unite the American people, as well as communicate his vision for the nation's future. To achieve this goal, Kennedy employed various rhetorical strategies, including ethos, pathos, and logos. This essay will focus on the ethos of Kennedy's inaugural address, examining how he asserted his credibility and authority as a leader and effectively appealed to the values ​​and beliefs of his audience. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay Ethos, as defined by Aristotle, refers to the credibility or ethical appeal of a speaker. In his inaugural address, Kennedy strategically used ethics to establish his credibility and authority as a leader. From the beginning of his speech, Kennedy emphasized the collective wisdom and experience of the American people, stating: “For I have sworn before you and Almighty God the same solemn oath which our forefathers prescribed nearly a century and three-quarters ago ”. By invoking the legacy of his predecessors and emphasizing the continuity of American values ​​and traditions, Kennedy positioned himself as a leader who respected and honored the principles of the nation's founders. Furthermore, Kennedy's use of inclusive language and his focus on shared values ​​and aspirations further enhanced his ethos. Throughout his speech, Kennedy repeatedly used the pronouns “we” and “our,” emphasizing the collective identity and common purpose of the American people. For example, he stated: “Let every nation know, whether it wishes us well or ill, that we will pay any price, bear any burden, face any hardship, support any friend, oppose any enemy to ensure the survival and success of freedom ." By aligning himself with the American people and emphasizing their shared commitment to freedom and democracy, Kennedy strengthened his credibility and authority as a leader. Furthermore, Kennedy's ethics were also evident in his appeal to the moral and ethical principles that are underlying American democracy. During his speech, Kennedy emphasized the importance of upholding justice, equality and human rights. For example, he stated: “To those old allies whose cultural and spiritual origins we share, we promise the loyalty of faithful friends. United, there is little we cannot do in a series of cooperative ventures. Divided, there is little we can do, for we dare not face a powerful challenge in disagreement and divide ourselves." By emphasizing the importance of unity and cooperation, as well as the shared values ​​of freedom and democracy, Kennedy established his credibility as a leader committed to upholding the nation's principles. Please note: this is just an example. Get a custom paper now from our expert writers. Get a Custom Essay In conclusion, John F. Kennedy's inaugural address is a powerful example of effective rhetoric, in which he strategically used ethos to establish his credibility and authority as a leader. Through his emphasis on the collective wisdom and experience of the American people, his use of inclusive language, and his appeal to the moral and ethical principles that underlie American democracy, Kennedy effectively appealed to the values ​​and beliefs of his public. Ultimately, Kennedy's ethos in his inaugural address played a crucial role in inspiring and uniting the American people, as well as communicating his vision for the future of..