First Fireside Chat: Perseverance Quotes

How we cite our quotes: (Sentence number)

Quote #4

You people must have faith; you must not be stampeded by rumors or guesses. Let us unite in banishing fear. (70)

Having faith means believing that something will work. Roosevelt needs his citizens to stay strong and believe that the banks will be open for business and stay open for business. Interesting word choice here with "stampede," as though he's suggesting that not persevering or losing our patience could result in being crushed.

Quote #5

It is your problem, my friends, your problem no less than it is mine. (73)

FDR connecting with his audience, sharing the weight of suffering. How can the president ask his people to persevere if he himself doesn't have to? Adding this line to the speech is smart for many reasons, but we think the primary reason is that it helps him win the empathy and trust of the people.