Summary

John F. Kennedy begins his Moon Speech by marking the historical significance of the context. Kennedy talks about the challenges that America is ready to face and about the nation’s power. Then, Kennedy talks about space exploration and declares that, despite the increasing efforts and knowledge of scientists, much of space still remains unknown. 

Kennedy then uses a metaphor to compress the 50,000 years of recorded history in 50 years. He begins by talking about people leaving their caves and ends by talking about humanity reaching for the stars. Kennedy also draws attention to the fact that ascending to space will bring rewards and challenges alike. 

Then, Kennedy talks about the benefits of space travel and suggests that they outweigh the risks. He declares that America was built to move forward and he associates the nation’s ambition with the...