Five Speeches that Changed America: Martin Luther King, Jr.

“It Was Said” is a documentary podcast series looking back on some of the most powerful, impactful, and timeless speeches in American history. Pulitzer Prize winning author-historian Jon Meacham offers expert insight and analysis into their origins, the orator, the context of the times they were given, why they are still relevant today, and the importance of never forgetting them.

During Lent, we will look at how these speeches address the challenges of the present day, while also discussing the way they pull upon themes in the Christian Tradition.

February 24th: Martin Luther King, Jr: The Last Speech
March 3rd: Robert F. Kennedy: A Eulogy for King
March 10th: President Obama’s Charleston Sermon
March 17th: Ronald Reagan’s Farewell Address
March 24th: Barbara Jordan, Your Keynote Speaker
March 31st: No Class: Holy Week
April 7th: No Class: Easter Sabbath

The speeches we will discuss can be found on the “It Was Said” podcast. It is best (but not necessary) to listen to the podcast before attending class. Links to the full speeches can be found in their respective calendar events.

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February 24th: Martin Luther King, Jr: The Last Speech.

In one of the most tumultuous moments in American history, Martin Luther King Jr. travels to Memphis to address the issue of racial and economic injustice. With eloquent language and brilliant rhetoric, he creates a mosaic of the ongoing Civil Rights struggle, culminating with a fearless and defiant premonition. The speech draws upon important images in scripture.

Please note the time shift for this Wednesday evening class during Lent. We will begin at 7:30 p.m. on Zoom:

https://zoom.us/j/314404719?pwd=a0RaYXMyMlQzL0RZYmlwSTdLQ2FxZz09

Password: 1829

Click to join the meeting or call-in by phone: (301) 715–8592
Meeting ID: 314 404 719