Four Freedoms Speech: Trivia

    Four Freedoms Speech: Trivia

      Though the SOTU report is an annual occurrence, it wasn't until FDR actually called it the "State of the Union" address in 1934 that it was called by that name. Before then, it was known more generally as "the President's Annual Message to Congress" and the "Hey, Congress, Hey" speech. (Source)

      The National Recording Preservation Act of 2000 led to the creation of the National Recording Registry at the Library of Congress. Its purpose is to preserve the heritage of America's important sound recordings. FDR's fireside chats are included among the first 50 recordings in the registry. Feel like getting chatted up by the 32nd president of the United States? Have a listen! (Source)

      FDR delivered the "Four Freedoms" address with ease, but that doesn't mean it was easy to write. The address went through seven drafts, and the namesake Four Freedoms didn't even appear until the fourth draft. Guess the fourth time's the charm. (Source)

      Located at the Franklin D. Roosevelt Four Freedoms Park is a memorial to the man himself, which was designed by Louis Kahn, the renowned and notoriously mysterious architect. Differing from more traditional design conventions, as used in the Four Freedoms monuments in Indiana and Florida, Kahn's design is typical of his heavy, geometric, and slightly spooky style. It's also the architect's final work. (Source)

      FDR's first presidential inauguration was the last time the ceremony was held on March 4th. Since then, inaugurations have taken place on January 20th, thanks to the 20th Amendment. (Source)

      FDR read the "Four Freedoms" address from a typewritten copy that has a gross stain on the first page. Sure, it's an old document, but still, you have to wonder if he was eating a hot dog or something during rehearsal. (Source)