The People Behind Presidential Speeches
Mar 30, 2026 - May 4, 2026
Spots remaining: 13
Full course description
Description
Ever wonder who writes presidential speeches? We will trace the evolution of speechwriting from George Washington's administration to today. Yes, Hamilton helped draft Washington's Farewell Address, but no, Lincoln did not scribble the Gettysburg Address on an envelope. We will study the writing process presidents used and examine drafts from FDR, Truman, Eisenhower, Kennedy, Carter, and George H.W. Bush.
Date(s)March 30 - May 4, 2026
Class Time(s)Mon 3:00 PM - 4:30 PM
Diana Carlin
Diana Carlin, PhD, is professor emerita of communication at Saint Louis University. For 30 years, she has taught courses on, and written about, First Ladies.
LocationTo Be Announced
# of Meeting(s)6
Notes
This is an Osher Online class.
Weekly - Mon 3:00 PM - 4:30 PM; 6 sessions starting 3/30/2026, ending 5/4/2026 (New lessons are released None specified)