Former Obama administration staffer Ben Rhodes, a former speechwriter and deputy national security adviser to Barack Obama, has released a new book titled All We Say – The Battle for American Identity: A History in 15 Speeches. In the book, Rhodes examines America through its most defining orations, from Frederick Douglass to Donald Trump.
Jeremiah Wright and Obama's 'Race Speech'
Rhodes discusses the controversial figure of Jeremiah Wright, whose sermons during the 2008 Democratic primary forced Obama to deliver a landmark speech on race. Rhodes notes that Trump has proven Wright correct about many things, such as America being founded on racism. The speech, titled A More Perfect Union, was largely written by Obama himself and aimed to bridge racial divides. Rhodes recalls watching from campaign headquarters as Obama delivered what became known as the 'race speech'.
The Evolution of American Oratory
Rhodes' book spans 250 years, starting with Benjamin Franklin and Seneca chief Sagoyewatha. It includes speeches by Frederick Douglass, Abraham Lincoln, Franklin D. Roosevelt, Martin Luther King Jr., and John F. Kennedy, as well as reactionary voices like Alexander H. Stephens, Ronald Reagan, and Trump. Rhodes also highlights lesser-known figures such as Maria Stewart, Anna Dickinson, and Dolores Huerta.
Forgotten Voices and Flawed Heroes
Rhodes notes the difficulty in finding speeches by women before World War II, suggesting they may have been intentionally forgotten. Anna Dickinson's 1868 speech Idiots and Women excoriated the patriarchy, but she was later institutionalized by her family. Similarly, Mary Elizabeth Lease, a populist orator, drew huge crowds but her legacy faded. Rhodes also addresses the imperfections of historical figures, including Lincoln's racist quotes and Frederick Douglass' treatment of his first wife.
The Central Figure: Frederick Douglass
Douglass' speech Composite Nation (1869) is central to the book. Rhodes praises Douglass' plea for multiracial democracy, which included defending Chinese immigrants at a time when that was unpopular. Rhodes draws parallels to modern immigration debates, arguing that the same principles should apply today.
All We Say is now available. Rhodes is also the author of The World As It Is (2018) and After the Fall (2021).
