Dwight D. Eisenhower: “Cross of Iron” Speech

Dwight D. Eisenhower was president of the United States during a golden age of relative peace and prosperity that followed World War II and the opening years of the Cold War. He was not a great orator, as he lacked the eloquence of Franklin D. Roosevelt or the intensity of Harry S. Truman. His speaking style during his prepared speeches was often described as plain, quiet, and blunt. This suited him well during an age when the availability and popularity of television expanded greatly. His oratory style and appearance conveyed a confident, grandfatherly image that resonated well with Americans. At a time of uncertainty about the growing power of the Soviet Union, Eisenhower was able to reassure Americans, and the public responded with a high degree of trust in the president. Eisenhower was not comfortable speaking extemporaneously. During press conferences, his answers were often confused and rambling. He was the first president to have an official speechwriter, Emmet J. Hughes, although many had previously used speechwriters in an unofficial manner. In his “Cross of Iron” Speech, Eisenhower contrasts the postwar paths of the Soviet Union and the United States and proposes ways in which the two nations could bring about peace peaceful relations and reduce global tensions.