Rhetorical Analysis Of Alfred M Green Speech

An Insightful Interpretation of a Purposeful Execution During the Civil War, African Americans were initially not allowed to join the army, until after the war began in 1861. Although it was not yet permitted for African Americans to fight in the Civil War, Alfred M. Green foresaw the validation and encouraged African Americans to prepare for enlistment. Throughout his speech, Alfred M. Green points out America’s grandeur, acknowledges and refutes the opposition, and lastly, goes on to appeal to the public’s faith and fear in order to inflame their spirits of joining the Union forces. Alfred M. Green delivers his speech in hopes of persuading his fellow African Americans to join the Union forces in the Civil War. In the first paragraph, Alfred M. Green begins by pointing out America's undeniable ability to inspire burning patriotism in its citizens. He indicates that it is time to prove themselves, a great nation, of their bravery and patriotism to the world, claiming that love of country, freedom, and civil and religious toleration is present in this great republic. Moreover, he insists that these principles that they possess are those which they need to reveal to others. Green then continues on by mentioning that these values, allow men with true patriotism to love their country, no matter
Green’s acknowledgement of the opposition, he continues on in the fourth paragraph by rebutting the opposition. He proclaims that it is wrong to neglect their present duty while they dwell upon wrongdoings of the past. Admitting their current position is not enough to fuel a burning energy and enthusiasm for the battlefield; yet, he claims that they must attempt to hope for a better future and not let the achievements of their founding fathers be damaged due to a lack of valor among them. Green concludes this section by appealing to the people’s pride and sense of duty, fortifying the idea that they should honor what their ancestors