The Most Famous Speech in the World, Ranked

Voting rules: Choose the speech you think is the most famous!

Updated on May 7, 2024 06:27

Determining the most influential speech in history can often provide insight into the values and challenges of past generations, as well as enduring lessons for today. A speech that resonates widely might capture essential truths, inspire social movements, or alter the course of political events. By ranking these speeches, we gain a collective understanding of what people consider most impactful or moving. This dynamic listing invites everyone to participate in defining which speeches hold the greatest significance. Through your votes, a living hierarchy is formed, reflecting a broader consensus on speeches that have shaped human thought and action across the globe. Whether for their emotional power, historical importance, or rhetorical brilliance, your input helps highlight those words that continue to influence us profoundly.

What Is the Most Famous Speech in the World?

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67
votes
"US Government Photo" · Public domain

"I Have a Dream" by Martin Luther King Jr.

Martin Luther King Jr.

This speech is widely recognized as one of the most influential speeches in history, advocating for civil rights and racial equality.
"I Have a Dream" is a powerful and iconic speech delivered by Martin Luther King Jr. during the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom on August 28, 1963. The speech is considered one of the most significant pieces of American history, advocating for racial equality and civil rights.

Date: August 28, 1963

Location: Lincoln Memorial, Washington D.C.

Speech Type: Op-Ed

Length: Approximately 17 minutes

Theme: Civil rights and racial equality
"I Have a Dream" by Martin Luther King Jr. in other rankings
- Position 2 of 10 in Most popular Op-Eds
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20
votes
"Gettysburg Address" by Abraham Lincoln

Abraham Lincoln

This speech is considered one of the greatest speeches in American history, emphasizing the importance of democracy and the sacrifice of soldiers during the Civil War.
The Gettysburg Address is a famous speech delivered by Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States, on November 19, 1863. It was given during the American Civil War at the dedication ceremony for the Soldiers' National Cemetery in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. The speech is known for its powerful and concise message, expressing the ideals of equality and democracy in the midst of a divided nation.

Date: November 19, 1863

Location: Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, USA

Length: Approximately 2 minutes

Purpose: To honor the soldiers who died at the Battle of Gettysburg and to inspire the nation

Audience: Attendees of the dedication ceremony and the wider American public
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17
votes
"We Shall Fight on the Beaches" by Winston Churchill

Winston Churchill

This speech is known for its powerful rhetoric and leadership during World War II, inspiring the British people to continue fighting against Nazi Germany.
The 'We Shall Fight on the Beaches' speech was delivered by Winston Churchill during World War II. It is considered one of the most famous speeches in the world and served as a rallying call to the British people during a crucial time in history.

Date: June 4, 1940

Location: House of Commons, United Kingdom

Audience: British Parliament and the British people

Context: During the evacuation of British and Allied forces from Dunkirk

Purpose: To inspire resilience and determination in the face of impending German invasion
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10
votes
"Tear down this wall" by Ronald Reagan

Ronald Reagan

This speech was delivered during the Cold War and called for the dismantling of the Berlin Wall, which ultimately led to the reunification of Germany.
The speech 'Tear down this wall' by Ronald Reagan is a historic address given by Ronald Reagan, the 40th President of the United States, at the Brandenburg Gate in West Berlin on June 12, 1987. The speech was delivered during the Cold War and aimed to encourage the Soviet Union to dismantle the Berlin Wall, which symbolized the division between East and West Germany. It is considered one of Reagan's most notable speeches and has since become famous for its impactful message.

Date of Speech: June 12, 1987

Location: Brandenburg Gate, West Berlin

Audience: West Berliners and the world

Context: Cold War era, Berlin Wall

Purpose: To encourage the Soviet Union to dismantle the Berlin Wall
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12
votes
"Ask not what your country can do for you" by John F. Kennedy

John F. Kennedy

This speech emphasized the importance of civic duty and encouraged Americans to contribute to their country.
The speech 'Ask not what your country can do for you' by John F. Kennedy is one of the most famous speeches in the world. It was delivered by President John F. Kennedy during his inaugural address on January 20, 1961. The speech called for unity and civic responsibility among the American people.

Date: January 20, 1961

Speech Type: Inaugural Address

Theme: Unity and civic responsibility

Famous Quote: 'Ask not what your country can do for you - ask what you can do for your country.'

Length: 14 minutes
6

12
votes
"The Sermon on the Mount" by Jesus Christ

Jesus Christ

This speech is considered one of the most important sermons in Christianity, emphasizing the importance of love, forgiveness, and humility.
The Sermon on the Mount is a key teaching of Jesus Christ, found in the Gospel of Matthew. It is considered one of the most famous speeches in the world and is revered by Christians as a central part of Jesus' teachings.

Location: Mount

Gospel: Matthew

Importance: Significant in Christian theology

Audience: Disciples and crowd

Content: Includes teachings on morality, prayer, and the Kingdom of Heaven
7

8
votes
"Blood, Toil, Tears and Sweat" by Winston Churchill

Winston Churchill

This speech was delivered during World War II and called for a united effort to defeat Nazi Germany.
The 'Blood, Toil, Tears and Sweat' speech was delivered by Winston Churchill on May 13, 1940, shortly after he became the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom. It is one of the most famous speeches in the world and is often remembered as the rallying cry during World War II.

Date: May 13, 1940

Speech Type: Political, Inspirational

Context: World War II, Churchill's appointment as Prime Minister

Audience: British House of Commons, general public

Purpose: Inspire and prepare the nation for a difficult war
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9
votes
"Ain't I a Woman?" by Sojourner Truth

Sojourner Truth

This speech was delivered during the women's rights movement and advocated for equal rights for women and African Americans.
The 'Ain't I a Woman?' speech by Sojourner Truth is a powerful and iconic address that challenges gender and racial inequality. It was delivered by Sojourner Truth, an African-American abolitionist and women's rights activist, during the Women's Rights Convention in Akron, Ohio, in 1851. The speech reflects Truth's personal experiences and perspective as a black woman in the United States during a time of intense discrimination and slavery.

Date: 1851

Location: Akron, Ohio, United States

Theme: Gender and racial inequality

Audience: Attendees of the Women's Rights Convention

Language: English
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8
votes
"The Ballot or the Bullet" by Malcolm X

Malcolm X

This speech advocated for African American empowerment and emphasized the importance of political power.
The 'The Ballot or the Bullet' is a powerful and influential speech delivered by civil rights activist Malcolm X on April 3, 1964. The speech explores the urgent need for African Americans to use their voting power to bring about social and political changes, or else resort to more drastic means for self-defense and liberation.

Date: April 3, 1964

Topic: Civil rights, African American empowerment

Location: Cory Methodist Church, Cleveland, Ohio

Duration: Approximately 45 minutes

Key Ideas: Importance of political power, self-defense, economic independence
10

5
votes
"The Speech" by Charlie Chaplin

Charlie Chaplin

This speech was delivered in the film "The Great Dictator" and criticized Nazi Germany and fascism. It is considered one of the most powerful anti-war speeches.
The Speech, also known as 'The Great Dictator Speech', is a powerful monologue delivered by Charlie Chaplin in his movie 'The Great Dictator'. It is considered one of the most famous speeches in the world, known for its timeless message of hope, humanity, and the importance of peace.

Title: The Speech

Alternate Title: The Great Dictator Speech

Movie: The Great Dictator

Year: 1940

Character: Adenoid Hynkel / The Barber

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Ranking factors for famous speech

Historical significance

Consider the impact the speech has had on history, politics, social movements, or human rights. A famous speech should have played a significant role in shaping civilizations, societies, or public opinion.
Emotional resonance

Assess how the speech resonates emotionally with people from different backgrounds and generations. A powerful speech should elicit strong emotional responses, such as feelings of hope, inspiration, outrage, or empathy.
Timelessness

Determine whether the speech continues to be relevant today. A famous speech should be able to withstand the test of time and hold value for future generations.
Universality

Analyze the extent to which the speech appeals to a wide audience. A memorable speech should be applicable to people from diverse cultures, nations, and backgrounds.
Eloquence and rhetorical skills

Evaluate the orator's use of language, style, tone, and delivery. A famous speech should be eloquent, well-structured, and effectively convey its message.
Memorable phrases or quotes

Consider the presence of memorable phrases or quotes within the speech that have become widely recognized or repeated. Famous speeches often contain powerful and memorable lines that have become ingrained in the collective consciousness.
Speaker's influence

Take into account the influence and reputation of the speaker. A famous speech is often delivered by someone who has a significant influence on society or who has made a substantial impact on the world.
Context

Understand the historical and social context in which the speech was delivered. Consider the events, issues, and controversies present at the time of the speech to fully appreciate its significance.
Originality

Assess the level of originality in the speech content and delivery. A powerful speech should present unique ideas and perspectives, challenge the status quo, or offer fresh insights into long-standing problems.
Legacy

Finally, consider the lasting impact of the speech on society and culture. A famous speech often leaves a lasting legacy, inspires future generations, and is frequently referred to or studied in various contexts today.

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most famous speech in the world. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or speech is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

1647 views
161 votes
10 ranked items

Movers & Shakers

"I Have a Dream" by Martin Luther King Jr.
"Gettysburg Address" by Abraham Lincoln
"The Sermon on the Mount" by Jesus Christ
"The Speech" by Charlie Chaplin

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each speech once every 24 hours. The rank of each speech is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

More information on most famous speech in the world

The art of public speaking has been an integral part of human history, with some speeches gaining worldwide recognition for their impact on society. From political addresses to motivational talks, speeches have the power to inspire, provoke, and unite people. But which speech stands out as the most famous in the world? While opinions may vary, one speech that undoubtedly tops the list is Martin Luther King Jr.'s "I Have a Dream" speech. Delivered on August 28, 1963, during the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom, King's passionate call for racial equality and justice resonated with millions of people around the world. His powerful words, "I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character," have become a symbol of hope and progress for generations to come. Other speeches that are often cited as the most famous in the world include John F. Kennedy's inaugural address, Winston Churchill's "We Shall Fight on the Beaches" speech, and Abraham Lincoln's Gettysburg Address. Each of these speeches represents a pivotal moment in history and has left an indelible mark on society.