Voices of History: Speeches that Changed the World

A collection of historical speeches, from ancient times to the present, including new speeches from Queen Elizabeth II and John Boyega in 2020, explores how they enlighten our past, enrich our present, and inspire and warn us about our future.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 304 pages
Publication date: 01 October 2020
Publisher: Orion Publishing Co

This comprehensive collection of remarkable speeches spans from ancient times to the twenty-first century, encompassing a diverse range of themes and perspectives. Among the many voices heard in this anthology are those of Martin Luther King, Michelle Obama, Donald Trump, Lincoln, Emmeline Pankhurst, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, Alexander the Great, Greta Thunberg, Elizabeth I, Cromwell, Churchill, JFK, Boudicca, Muhammad Ali, and Malala. Voices of History serves as a testament to the power of speech, showcasing how these unique addresses have shaped our past, enriched our present, and continue to inspire and offer valuable insights into our future.

The speeches in this collection are drawn from a wide array of sources, including historical documents, speeches, and interviews. Each speech is carefully selected to provide a unique perspective on a particular event, person, or movement. The speeches range from heroic and inspiring to diabolical and atrocious, from exquisite and poignant to cruel and chilling.

One of the most notable speeches in the collection is Martin Luther King's "I Have a Dream" speech, delivered during the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom in 1963. In this speech, King calls for an end to racial discrimination and segregation and advocates for equality and justice for all Americans. Another powerful speech is Michelle Obama's "Yes We Can" speech, delivered during her presidential campaign in 2008. In this speech, Obama encourages Americans to believe in themselves and their ability to make a difference, highlighting the importance of community and collaboration.

Donald Trump's "Inauguration Address" in 2017 is also included in the collection. In this speech, Trump promises to make America great again and to bring back jobs and prosperity to the American people. Lincoln's "Gettysburg Address" in 1863, which commemorates the fallen soldiers of the Civil War, is another important speech in the collection. In this speech, Lincoln calls for a nation united in purpose and dedicated to the pursuit of liberty and equality.

Emmeline Pankhurst's "Suffragette Speech" in 1908, which calls for women's right to vote, is another notable speech in the collection. In this speech, Pankhurst argues that women are not inferior to men and that they deserve the same rights and opportunities as men. Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie's "We Should All Be Feminists" speech in 2014, which addresses the issue of gender inequality and the importance of feminism, is also included in the collection.

Alexander the Great's "Address to the Athenians" in 334 BCE, which outlines his vision for a unified Greece, is another important speech in the collection. In this speech, Alexander emphasizes the importance of unity and cooperation among different cultures and peoples. Greta Thunberg's "Climate Strike" speech in 2019, which calls for action to address climate change, is also included in the collection. In this speech, Thunberg argues that the planet is facing a climate emergency and that urgent action is needed to mitigate the effects of global warming.

Elizabeth I's "Speech to the Troops at Tilbury" in 1588, which celebrates her victory over the Spanish Armada, is another notable speech in the collection. In this speech, Elizabeth emphasizes the importance of unity and courage in times of war and encourages her troops to fight for their country. Cromwell's "Speech to the Parliament of England" in 1653, which outlines his vision for a republican government, is also included in the collection. In this speech, Cromwell argues that the monarchy is corrupt and that the people should have more control over their government.

Churchill's "We Shall Fight on the {URL}" speech in 1940, which addresses the British people during World War II, is another important speech in the collection. In this speech, Churchill calls for the British people to stand firm in the face of adversity and to fight for their country and their freedom. JFK's "I Believe in America" speech in 1961, which addresses the American people during the Cold War, is also included in the collection. In this speech, JFK calls for a nation united in purpose and dedicated to the pursuit of peace and prosperity.

Boudicca's "Speech to the Iceni" in 60 CE, which calls for the British people to resist Roman occupation, is another notable speech in the collection. In this speech, Boudicca emphasizes the importance of resistance and the power of the people to overcome oppression. Muhammad Ali's "I Am the Greatest" speech in 1964, which celebrates his athletic achievements and his commitment to social justice, is also included in the collection. In this speech, Ali calls for the American people to embrace diversity and to recognize the importance of social and economic equality.

Malala Yousafzai's "I Am Malala" speech in 2014, which addresses the issue of education for girls and the importance of standing up for what is right, is also included in the collection. In this speech, Malala argues that education is a fundamental human right and that girls should have the same opportunities as boys to learn and grow.

Voices of History is a powerful and thought-provoking collection of speeches that offers a unique perspective on the past, present, and future. These speeches have the ability to inspire, educate, and challenge us, and they serve as a reminder of the power of speech to shape our world. Whether you are interested in history, politics, or social justice, this collection is sure to provide you with valuable insights and perspectives.

Weight: 268g
Dimension: 130 x 197 x 31 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781474609937