Speeches that Defined the World

Speeches that Defined the World is a collection of the most potent and memorable speeches throughout history. These speeches highlight recurring themes such as politics and power, war and peace, civil rights and human rights. What they all have in common is the power to inspire – emotionally, politically and socially.

Many of history’s greatest orators and pivotal moments are featured. These speeches shaped and changed the world. Different eras and many nations are represented, with several speeches from famous women – speeches of clarity and hope. Many historic names are featured – JFK, Martin Luther King, Franklin D. Roosevelt, Winston Churchill, Mahatma Gandhi, Nelson Mandela, Margaret Thatcher, Aung Sun Suu Kyi and Hilary Clinton – but there are also lesser known orators who are remembered for making their mark on history too.

The passing of time allows many speeches to take on a deeper meaning and poignancy. Others have become an iconic part of history. The greatest speeches in history are featured in Speeches that Influenced the World.

Speeches include:

• Franklin D. Roosevelt, ‘The Only Thing We have to Fear’, 1933
• Winston Churchill, ‘Our Finest Hour’ 1940
• Mahatma Gandhi, ‘Quit India’ 1942
• Martin Luther King, ‘I Have a Dream’ 1963
• Margaret Thatcher, ‘This Woman’s Not For Turning’, 1984
• David Lange, ‘Nuclear Weapons Are Indefensible’, 1985
• Kevin Rudd, Apology to Australia’s Indigenous Peoples’, 2008