Out of the experience of an extraordinary human disaster that lasted too long, must be born a society of which all humanity will be proud. the time for the healing of the wounds has come. the moment to bridge the chasms that divide us has come. never, never and never again shall it be that this beautiful land will again experience the oppression of one by another and indignity. -nelson mandela's inaugural address, may 10, 1994 nelson mandela's inaugural address reflects his belief that a) minority rule in south africa should be eradicated. b) the system of apartheid should not be allowed in south africa. c) although once necessary, the system of apartheid should be eliminated. d) the people responsible for the system of apartheid should be punished.

sorry i answered the wrong question

each year on this day, i make it a point to listen to dr. martin luther king jr.’s great “i have a dream” speech. it’s electrifying every single time.

the content of dr. king’s speech, his inspiring presence, and the moment in history all came together to make the iconic “i have a dream” speech the defining moment of the american civil rights movement. but there are several other reasons why this speech, delivered over 50 years ago, remains an example of one of the best speeches in american history.

since part of my job is to people become better presenters, i’ve noticed several techniques that we can all learn from and be inspired by in this magnificent speech.

it’s anchored in a powerful related location

in most cases, you can’t handpick the spot to give a presentation, as mlk did for supreme symbolic effect when he stood on the steps of the lincoln memorial and echoed the opening words of the gettysburg address (“five score years ago . . ). but you absolutely can amplify your message by adapting it to your setting and location.