GOP Convention June 24-28, 1940 • Philadelphia
(From the National Archives, courtesy of Joel Kaye)
[Excerpts coming soon!]
Concession statement November 6, 1940 • Hotel Commodore, New York City
(From the National Archives, courtesy of Joel Kaye)
Willkie makes his concession statement on the day after the election in a parlor of the Hotel Commodore in New York City. This is a recording of the announcement that was broadcast live by CBS Radio.
“Concession” (1:30 - MP3)
“Loyal Opposition” November 11, 1940 • New York City
(From: Great American Speeches, Vol. 3, 1931-1947. Graham, John (ed.), New York: Caedmon, 1969)
In this nationwide radio address, delivered within a week of his defeat, Willkie urges the full support of Roosevelt’s efforts to counter Nazi aggression in Europe. Never before, or since, has a defeated presidential candidate urged such strong cooperation with his victorious opponent. The “Loyal Opposition” speech removed any lingering doubts that Willkie was sincere in his claim to be able to rise above party politics for the good of the nation.
In this speech, Willkie also makes a roundabout apology to Roosevelt for the spiteful tone he took near the end of the campaign. (Hear it in the “No Bitterness” passage.)
“No Bitterness” (0:30 - MP3)
“Roosevelt is Our President” (0:26 - MP3)
“Minority Convictions” (0:32 - MP3)
“Powerful Opposition” (0:36 - MP3)
“Make Democracy Strong” July 23, 1941
(Courtesy: The History Channel • Requires RealPlayer)
In this speech, Willkie makes a plea to end American isolationism.
“Make Democracy Strong” (3:39 - Streamed RealPlayer file)
Original content Copyright © 1999-2004 
Timothy D. Walker Your comments are appreciated
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