2017 prize-winning student essays from the competition based on the following topic: On March 4, 1801, Thomas Jefferson gave his first presidential inaugural address after a bruising, contested election involving painful personal attacks as well as 36 separate ballots in the House of Representatives. Over 200 years later and after a bruising election of his own, Trump faced a divided nation when he gave his address on Jan. 20, 2017.
Compare these two men’s inaugural speeches addressing their rhetorical styles, specific arguments, and/or receptions after their delivery. What, in your view, are the most significant differences between the two, and what might these differences suggest about the changing values of our nation?
