Towards the end of his speech, Roosevelt uses an interesting phrase to imply that Americans are loyal to him. He says "it has been wonderful to me to catch the note of confidence from all over the country. I can never be sufficiently grateful to the people for the loyal support that they have given me […]" (66).

Really, guy? Have you actually been eavesdropping all over the country?

Has FDR really heard normal, everyday people talking more confidently about the economy? Does he really have the "loyal support" of the people? After all, in this speech he's telling the people about the new plan going forward. So, how could he have already heard about the new confidence and loyalty?

FDR is using a clever (and effective) trick in this speech. The truth of his statement is less important than the effect, and the effect is that people will believe that others are confident and loyal, so they will be too.

If this sounds like scary brainwashing, you're right—it kind of is scary brainwashing. But given the hardships of the time it was what the country probably needed.

Remember, economic disasters are usually caused, or at least made worse, by fear…and they're usually solved (or made better) by confidence. By projecting the image and feeling of confidence and loyalty onto his people, Roosevelt made a smart leadership move that pushed the country in the right direction.