Steel Companies Forge Tyranny The 1960s marked a period of great change, unrest, and innovation in American history. President John F. Kennedy worked hard to ensure the best for the citizens of the United States, and that's why when steel companies raised their prices 3.5 percent in a time of economic distress, Kennedy responded with indignation. In his address to the American people on April 11, 1962, President John F. Kennedy used a multitude of rhetorical strategies to persuade the American public to join his crusade against the greed of big steel companies. President Kennedy begins his speech by immediately expressing his opinion on the matter; that the actions of the steel companies “constitute a completely unjustifiable and irresponsible situation”. He creates a tone of judgment and disappointment when he discusses what "a few gigantic corporations have decided to" do rather than what "they could" do. It once again paints this narrative that steel companies are not acting in the public interest and that the public must force them to do so. The “Steel Workers Union”, the “Department of Justice”, the “Federal Trade Commission” and the “Department of Defense” can “be proud” of what they do, but that is not enough not. This is a key part of Kennedy's speech, as it is the latest reason why the public must fight back against the recent greedy actions of the steel companies. Kennedy defends the rights of corporations that their decisions “should be made freely and privately.” Therefore, the American people are entitled "to expect, in return for this freedom, a greater sense of corporate responsibility for the well-being of their country than has been demonstrated over the past two last days.” The shame and disappointment Kennedy portrays convinces the audience that he deserves more and must take action. Kennedy concludes: “Some time ago I asked every American to think about what they would do for their country and I asked the steel companies. Over the past 24 hours, we have had their responses. His final remarks, embittered by condemnation in his diction and tone, ring with a sense of finality. Alluding to a quote from his previous speech on patriotism, he raises the crucial question: Is it right that you sacrifice everything for your country and the steel companies simply refuse to do so? This statement attacks the nationalism of steel companies and strains the “us versus them” mentality ».