- Sep 2016
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millercenter.org millercenter.org
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But the recognition of a common humanity, the reconciliation of people bound by blood and a belief in one another -- that’s where progress begins. Understanding, and listening, and forgiveness. And if the Cuban people face the future together, it will be more likely that the young people of today will be able to live with dignity and achieve their dreams right here in Cuba.
Here, Obama uses Ad Populum to give the people a common ground in their identity as Cubans so that they can continue with "understanding, and listening, and forgiveness." Because they are all Cuban, they should work together and try to better their country together. He is telling them that being Cuban is a strong enough bond for them to all be on the same team and rally together to make the future better. Because they are Cuban they should want and strive for the same things.
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Who would have believed that back in 1959?
Obama uses a rhetorical question here to show the stark difference between the present and the 1950s in America. He calls people to reflect on the past and therefore to draw conclusions about the progress and change that has occurred since then. By reflecting on the past, he calls his audience to consider the future. He uses this strategy to engage his audience and invite them to participate.
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