We Choose to Go to the Moon

Address at Rice University

English · Political Science, Essays & Short Works

President John F. Kennedy’s address at Rice University presents the case for sending Americans to the Moon. He frames the goal as a national undertaking, arguing that the challenge is worth pursuing not because it is easy, but because it is difficult.

The speech connects space exploration with scientific discovery, technological progress, and the country’s ambitions. Kennedy addresses the scale of the work ahead and the commitment required to achieve it, giving the address both a practical focus and a larger sense of purpose.

Delivered in a public, persuasive style, the speech is a landmark example of presidential rhetoric: direct, energetic, and built around a memorable call to action. Its appeal lies in hearing Kennedy make the Moon mission feel like a shared national challenge.

This recording is part of the Old Time Radio collection.