Topic

Kennedy’s "Ich bin ein Berliner" speech covers two main topics: US support for West Berlin and criticism of Communism.

US support and Communism

Parts of Kennedy’s speech are focused on highlighting US support for West Berlin. He talks about the US and its support for the resilient Berliners, while also encouraging Berliners to look forward to a future where freedom prevails. Kennedy’s support for West Berlin is also shown through his praise for General Clay, the American administrator of occupied Germany after WWII. Clay arranged the Berlin airlift (1948-1949), where the Allied forces airdropped supplies to West Berlin after it was blocka...