The Newburgh Address essays

The Newburgh Address essays The Newburgh Address was the result of unrest in 1783 among officers of the American Army due to many officers and men not receiving pay for many years. General George Washington stopped any serious talk by appealing successfully to his officers to support the supremacy of Congress. The officers had been promised a lifetime pension of half pay; instead, Congress gave them five years full pay. I believe that this speech incorporates testimonial, rhetorical questions, and emotional appeal. General Washington makes a very persuasive argument to the soldiers of the American Army which is the reason I chose the topic testimonial. Emotional appeal just for that reason he is appealing to their emotions, though he is a rough military man, he speaks to them as a friend, and he gives them comfort. Finally rhetorical questions, every great argument has at least one rhetorical question, in the case of this one he uses several throughout the Newburgh Address. Why then should we distrust them? And, in consequence of that distrust, adopt measures which may cast a shade over that glory which has been so justly acquired; and tarnish the reputation of an army which is celebrated through all Europe, for its fortitude and patriotism? And for what is this done? To bring the object we seek nearer? No! Most certainly, in my opinion, it will cast it at a greater distance. When Washington is saying this he is giving his own opinion as to what Congress is doing. He is basically telling his soldiers that its been hard and he knows this but The United States of America is just starting out, were still in a war with Great Britain, and we dont have enough money to pay them. He says I cannot, in justice to my own belief, and what I have great reason to conceive is the intention of Congress, conclude this address, without giving it as my decided opinion, that that honorable body entertain exalted sentiments of the services of th...