How Charlie Chaplin's final speech in, "The Great Dictator" had an impact on moral in the U.S. following WWII.


      Charlie Chaplin's final speech in his film "The Great Dictator" was a powerful and emotional moment that resonated deeply with audiences in the United States following World War II. The film, which was released in 1940, was a satire that mocked the rise of fascism in Europe and the atrocities committed by Nazi Germany. In the final scene of the film, Chaplin's character, a Jewish Barber who is mistakenly mistaken for the dictator Adenoid Hynkel, delivers a powerful speech in which he calls for peace, understanding, and compassion.

The speech was particularly impactful because it was delivered by one of the most beloved and respected figures in American entertainment. Chaplin had been a major star for decades, and his films had always been popular in the United States. As a result, his words carried a great deal of weight and authority. Additionally, the timing of the film's release was significant, as it was released just as the United States was beginning to fully grasp the scale of the atrocities committed by Nazi Germany and the other Axis powers.

In the speech, Chaplin addresses the audience directly, speaking of the need for unity and understanding between different groups of people. He implores people to put aside their differences and work together to build a better world. He states, "We want to live by each other's happiness, not by each other's misery".

The speech also touched on themes of anti-Semitism, which was a very relevant issue during the time of the film's release. The rise of fascist regimes in Europe had led to a resurgence of anti-Semitic sentiment, and the persecution of Jews was a key aspect of Nazi ideology. Chaplin's character, a Jewish Barber, was a clear reference to this issue, and his speech was a powerful call to action against anti-Semitism.

The impact of Charlie Chaplin's final speech in "The Great Dictator" was significant. It served as a powerful reminder of the importance of compassion and understanding in the face of hatred and bigotry. It also helped to galvanize public opinion in the United States in favor of greater efforts to combat fascism and racism. The film's message of tolerance and unity was particularly important during a time when the world was still reeling from the horrors of WWII, and it continues to be relevant today, as we continue to struggle with issues of racism and intolerance.

In conclusion, Charlie Chaplin's final speech in "The Great Dictator" had a profound impact on the moral of the US following WWII. The film's message of compassion, unity, and tolerance resonated deeply with audiences, and helped to galvanize public opinion in favor of greater efforts to combat fascism and racism. The speech continues to be relevant today, as we continue to struggle with issues of intolerance and prejudice.

            

            Andy S. 

Comments