Great Society Speech: What's Up With the Opening Lines?

    Great Society Speech: What's Up With the Opening Lines?

      This university has been coeducational since 1870, but I do not believe it was on the basis of your accomplishments that a Detroit high school girl said, "In choosing a college, you first have to decide whether you want a coeducational school or an educational school."

      "Well, we can find both here at Michigan, although perhaps at different hour.

      "I came out here today very anxious to meet the Michigan student whose father told a friend of mine that his son's education had been a real value.

      "It stopped his mother from bragging about him.

      "I have come today from the turmoil of your Capital to the tranquility of your campus to speak about the future of your country." (2-6)

      LBJ doesn't get to the meat of the speech until Line 6. First, he has to set up the audience. He acknowledges University of Michigan president Harlan Hatcher; Michigan governor George Romney (father of 2012 presidential candidate Mitt Romney); the Michigan congressional delegation; and finally, the Class of 1964.

      After a couple of jokes (yeah, you probably had to be there), he's ready to share his great ideas for a Great Society. He's gotta show the young audience that he can, y'know, relate.