"I Have a Dream"

There are several people in American History that have left there legacy in American history. Many of these people devoted their lives to the service of their country. One of the most well known and most revered individuals for American citizens is Martin Luther King Jr. He entered the spot light during the time of the Civil Rights Movement. Martin Luther King Jr. was an influential leader. He was an amazing motivational speaker, too. In his speech, “I Have a Dream”, Martin Luther King Jr. tries to persuade white people to treat African Americans as equals by using repetitive phrases.

Martin Luther King uses the repetition of phrases in order to urge his audience to action. This strategy is used several times throughout his speech. Some of the common phrases he uses are “Now is the time,” “One hundred years later”, “I have a dream,” and “Let freedom ring.” Repeating these phrases over and over again was an effective strategy in his speech because it reiterated the main points of his speech and kept the audience focused. Throughout his speech, this strategy was used to paint a picture of a unified America in the minds of all the people watching and listening. This picture and dream of a unified and free America helps to create a feeling of hope, equality, and freedom for African Americans. Repeating the phrases also helped to stress the urgency and importance of his message; everyone needed to step up and take action right then and there. Martin Luther King Jr. effectively used the repetition of phrases to his own advantage.

The steps of the Lincoln memorial will never be forgotten as the place where Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his moving speech, “I have a Dream.” His use of repetition was used wisely to touch and move the hearts and minds of the people. Martin Luther King Jr. left his mark and an amazing legacy on American history.