This is the essay I wrote for the 2020 AP Language Exam, which I took online in May. I was asked to write a rhetorical analysis of then-nominee George H. W. Bush's speech to the delegates of the Republican National Convention. I waited to post this until after the exams were graded and results were shared. I earned a 5 on the exam. George H. W. Bush was nominated as the Republican candidate for President of the United States, near the end of what was known as the American century. At the time, it was unknown whether America had reached its prime and was now in decline, or if it would continue to push innovation to new heights, though it is clear which direction Bush believed he could lead the country in. Bush takes the opportunity to speak to the delegates at the Republican National Convention and uses it to convince them and the American voters of his worth, and to thank them for their trust in him and his chosen Vice President, Dan Quayle. Bush speaks honestly and fondly of his experience as Vice President under President Ronald Reagan. Mentioning President Reagan so early in his speech reminds the audience of Bush’s success in the White House as Vice President, and stating he always provided the President with his “candor” and “loyalty” shows he believes in the current direction of the Republican Party and is loyal to it as well. He further cites the President’s recent speech to highlight the “simple truth” Bush is sharing. In speaking so kindly of President Reagan, Bush is ensuring he is associated with Reagan’s success, as well as modeling himself as the proper successor to Reagan’s presidency. George Bush convinces the delegates of the Republican National Convention, and the American people, he is the right choice by discussing his motivations and past achievements. He promises he will “run hard, fight hard, to stand on the issues I mean to win” painting him as a strong candidate and man, perfect to lead the free world. He describes himself as “a man who sees life in terms of missions” citing his extensive experience working for the American people, as a pilot as well as in political avenues. All of this builds his character in the eyes of the delegates, especially when it follows the flamboyant thanks he awards them in the beginning of his speech, calling them “gallant” and “kind.” Bush even goes so far as to mention that during his time as a pilot, it was understood “no matter what, you try to reach the target,” reapplying this phrase to his run for the presidency, and further convincing the delegates he will not give up. Bush also focuses on uniting the Republican Convention through the use of powerful language. He states he desires to “build a better America” and that he describes the United States as a “rising nation.” Such phrases inspire a sense of patriotism among those in his audience, and serve to rally them to his cause. Bush tells them the “facts are on our side,” building upon this patriotism by showing that logically, he is the best candidate for the job. The language throughout his speech continues to build, culminating at the end with phrases such as “our work is not done; our force is not spent” rallying the people behind Bush and his presidency. Bush recognizes his presidency would also mean the vice presidency of Dan Quayle, and takes time to describe then Senator Quayle to the audience. Bush describes Quayle as possessing a “forceful voice,” and having done a “superb job” thus far in the race for the presidency, convincing the delegates of their camaraderie. Bush even describes Quayle as “holding the promise of the future” showing to the delegates, and potential voters, Quayle may be young, but he is a force with the capability for greatness. George Bush speaks powerfully to the delegates at the Republican National Convention. By reminding them of his lifelong dedication to America and speaking highly of himself and Dan Quayle, he is able to convince the delegates they have made the right decision in nominating him for the presidency. His concern for the United States, and determination to improve the nation are inspiring, and set the tone for his candidacy as the Republican nominee, becoming the official voice of the party in the election and eventually winning him the title of President of the United States of America. May 2020, 11th Grade
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