Question

throughout this speech, dr. king chooses to reference famous american works, speeches, and songs, as well as the bible.
why do you think he chooses to do this? write a short paragraph explaining your reasoning.

and this will be the day -- this will be the day when all of gods children will be able to sing with new meaning:
my country tis of thee, sweet land of liberty, of thee i sing.
land where my fathers died, land of the pilgrims pride,
from every mountainside, let freedom ring!
... and when this happens, when we allow freedom ring, when we let it ring from every village and every hamlet, from every state and every city, we will be able to speed up that day when all of gods children, black men and

Explanation:

Identify the rhetorical purpose of allusions

Dr. King uses references to famous American songs, historical documents, and the Bible to establish common ground with his audience. By referencing shared cultural, religious, and national texts, he appeals to the deeply held values of his listeners.

Connect references to the central message

Using these familiar texts helps reinforce his Theme and Message of unity, freedom, and justice. For example, quoting "My Country, 'Tis of Thee" reminds the audience of the founding promise of liberty, highlighting the gap between American ideals and the reality of segregation.

Analyze the emotional and moral impact

These references function as powerful Literary Devices (specifically, allusions). They elevate the moral authority of his argument by aligning the Civil Rights Movement with sacred scripture and patriotic duty, making the call for equality feel both holy and uniquely American.

Answer:

Dr. King references famous American works, patriotic songs, and the Bible to establish a shared moral and cultural foundation with his diverse audience. By utilizing these powerful allusions, he elevates the Civil Rights Movement from a political struggle to a spiritual and patriotic duty. Quoting familiar texts like "My Country, 'Tis of Thee" allows him to hold America accountable to its founding promises of freedom and equality, while biblical references unite his listeners under a universal vision of justice and brotherhood.