欧巴马就职演说全文

第一篇：欧巴马就职演说全文

欧巴马就职演说全文

(法新社)1月21日 星期三 13:20

（法新社华盛顿 20日电）各位父老乡亲姊妹们：

今天我站在这里，谦卑地面对眼前的重责大任，感念各位托付于我的信任，遥想先贤先烈的牺牲奉献，我铭记于心。感谢布什总统对国家的服务，也谢谢他在交接过程中始终如一的宽厚与配合。

至今已有44位美国 人发表总统就职誓词，这些誓词发表于繁荣与和平时期，但也有些是在乌云密布、暴风肆虐之际发表。美国人之所以可以在困顿时刻继续向前，不只是因为高位者的能力或愿景，也是因为人民相信前人理念、忠于建国法统。

我们是这样走过来的，这一代的美国人也必须这样走下去。

我们非常了解我国现在身处危机中心，对抗暴力与憎恨的战争尚未结束，某些人的贪婪与不负责任，导致经济严重衰退，但这也是我们无法做出困难抉择、让国家准备好迎接新时代的后果。许多人失去家园、饭碗不保、公司关门；我们的健保费用太过昂贵、学校让许多人失望；每天一再有证据显示，我们使用能源的方式，使敌人壮大，让地球受到威胁。

这些是根据数据与统计得出的危机指标，而比较无法测量、却同样严重的危机，就是国家上下信心流失，害怕美国国力必将衰退、下一代眼界变低的忧虑挥之不去。

今天我告诉各位，我们面对的是切切实实的挑战，这些挑战不只重大，而且将接踵而来。这些挑战虽然无法在短时间内轻松解决，但美国人你们要知道，它们终将迎刃而解。

今天我们齐聚于此，因为我们选择希望而非恐惧，选择有决心的团结，而非冲突或歧异。

今天我们大声宣告，那些无用的牢骚与虚伪的承诺已然告终，那些让我们政坛窒息太久太久的交相指责与陈腐教条从此不再。

我们还是年轻的国家，但引用圣经 的话语来说，摆脱幼稚行为的时刻到来了，重申我们坚忍精神的时刻到来了，选择更好的历史，发扬宝贵天赋，发扬代代相传的高贵理想。上帝应许我们，人人平等，人人自由，人人都该有机会追求完完整整的幸福。

重申我国伟大的同时，我们了解到伟大绝非必然，伟大必须努力争取。我们的旅程永远不是抄快捷方式、或是易于满足而来；这条路从来就不是意志不坚、偏好享乐重于工作的人会选择的旅程，也不是只求名利之乐之人会走的路；相反地，在这条漫长且充满荆棘之路上带领我们，一路迈向繁荣与自由的人，向来都是勇于冒险的行动派、真正成事之人，这之中有些人赫赫有名，但在工作岗位默默耕耘者更占多数。

为了我们，他们带着简单的家当漂流万里，追寻新生活。

为了我们，他们在剥削劳力的工厂里苦干实干，定居西部，忍受鞭打，耕作于不毛之地。

为了我们，他们奋斗不懈，葬身康科德（Concord）盖茨堡（Gettsburg）、诺曼底（Normandy）、溪山（Khe Sahn）等等地方。

这些男男女女一再奋斗牺牲，工作到双手红肿，为的是让我们有机会过更好生活。他们认为美国的重要性，大于个人野心总和，也超越出身、财富或派系差异。

这是一条我们今天还在继续的旅程，我们仍是世上最富足、最强大的国家，这场危机爆发时，我们的生产力没少，我们的创造力依旧，我们的商品与服务，跟上星期、上个月或去年一样受到需要；我们的能力没有降低，但我们维护狭隘利益、抗拒令人不悦决定的时期必已过去，今天开始，我们需要重整精神、甩落尘埃，重新开始再造美国的工作。

环顾四周，许多工作尚待完成：现今的经济状况需要大胆且迅速的行动，我们也将有所动作，不只是创造新工作机会，也要为成长奠定新基础；我们将造桥铺路，设立符合商业需求、将我们连结在一起的电力网络与数字线路；我们将使科学获得应有的重视，运用科技奇迹，提升健保质量、降低其费用；我们将运用太阳能、风力及土壤，提供汽车与工厂所需能源；我们也将让学校与大专院校 适应新时代转型。这些我们都可以做，我们也将这么做。

现在，有些人质疑我们企图心的规模，他们认为，我们的体系无法负担太多大型计划，他们的记忆力不是很好，因为他们忘了国家过去的成就，忘了想象力与共同目标及必要勇气相结合时，不受拘束的男男女女可以达成何种成就。

怀疑论者不了解，他们的立场已经站不住脚，政治争论让我们空转太久，我们今天要问的，不是政府是不是太大或者太小，而是政府能否发挥作用，能否帮助家庭找到工资合理的工作、负担得起医疗照顾、可以有尊严的退休。答案是肯定的道路，我们继续前进；答案是否定的地方，计划就将结束。

我们使用公共资金的人会担负责任，明智地花费、革除坏习惯、尽心尽力，因为唯有如此，才能让人民与政府间重拾重要的信赖。

横在前方的问题，也并非市场力量是善是恶，市场创造财富、扩大自由的力量无可比拟，但这场危机提醒了我们，市场没有监督就会如脱缰野马，而且国家如果只重视有钱人，繁荣就无法持续下去；我们经济的成功，取决的不只是国内生产毛额大小，还端视富裕可及之范围，取决于我们能让每颗积极肯做的心获得机会的能力，这样不是在做善事，而是因为，这是我们最有把握能达到共同利益之路。

至于我们共同的防卫，我们认为必须在安全及理想中做选择是错误的。我们建国的诸位国父，面对我们几乎无法想象的危难，拟定确保法治与人权的宪章，并由一代一代的鲜血加以扩充。这些理想依然照亮全世界，我们不会为了权宜之计而放弃这些理想。同样的，所有其它观看这项就职典礼的各个民族及各国政府、从大首都到我父亲出生的小乡村，我要向他们说：「凡是追求和平及有尊严未来的国家、男男女女及儿童，美国是你们的朋友，我们已经准备好再次领导这个世界。」

回想之前数个世代对抗法西斯主义及共产主义，倚靠的不只是飞弹及坦克，还有坚强的盟邦与不朽的信念。他们了解单靠自身的力量无法保护我们自己，我们也不能因此为所欲为。相

反的，他们了解到，我们的力量因为谨慎的使用而增强；我们的安全源自于我们动机正当、身为楷模的力量、以及谦虚与自制混合起来的特质。

我们是这项遗产的保护者。再一次在这些原则的引导下，我们能够对付需要更多努力的新威胁，这些努力包括加强国家间合作以及了解。我们将开始以负责任的方式将伊拉克 交还给它的人民，并在阿富汗 建立得来不易的和平。我们将与老朋友与旧敌人携手，努力不懈地降低核子威胁，并击退地球暖化的幽灵。我们不会为自己的生活方式道歉，也会毫不犹豫的维护这种生活方式，对那些把引发恐怖并屠杀无辜做为手段，推动他们目的的人，我现在告诉你们，我们的意志力强过你们，且坚不可摧；你们不可能比我们长久，我们将打败你们。

因为我们知道，我们融合得来的遗产是种力量，不是缺点。我们是基督徒及穆斯林、犹太教徒与印度 教徒─及没有信仰的人所组成的国家。我们是由地球各个角落各种语言及文化形塑出来的国家；且因为我们曾尝过内战及种族隔离的痛苦洗礼、走出黑暗时代而变得更强壮且更团结，我们不得不相信仇恨总有一天会过去；部落之间的界线很快就会消失；当世界越变越小，我们做为人类的共同特质也将不言自明；美国必须扮演引进新和平时代的角色。

有关穆斯林世界方面，我们将根据互利与互重，寻求新的前进方式。我要告诉那些在全球各地散播冲突种子或将他们自己社会弊病归咎于西方国家的领袖，你们要知道，你们的人民是以你能建立什么，而非破坏什么来评断你。对于那些利用贪污及欺骗、消灭异己以紧抓权力的人，你们要知道，你们站在历史错误的那一边；但是如果你愿意松开拳头，我们将伸出援手。

对贫穷国家的人民，我们誓言与你们一起让你们的农场丰收并让清澈的水流动；滋养饥饿的身体并喂饱饥饿的心灵。对那些与我们一样、享受相对富足生活的国家，我们无法再对国境之外的苦难视而不见；我们也不能再不计后果地消耗地球资源。因为这个世界已经改变，我们必须与这个世界一起改变。

当我们思索眼前开展的道路，我们谦卑感激地记起在此刻巡逻偏远沙漠及山区的勇敢美国人。如同长眠阿灵顿公墓的英雄穿透世世代代的低语，他们今天有话告诉我们。我们尊敬他们，不仅是他们正在守护我们的自由，而是他们体现服务的精神；一种希望在比他们自己更重要的事物中，寻找到意义的意愿。然而，在这个能为一个世代立下定义的时刻，必须常驻我们所有人心中的正是这种精神。

就算政府能做且必须做，这个国家所能倚仗的终究是美国人民的信念与决心。仁慈让我们在堤防溃决时，收容陌生人，是劳工朋友的无私，希望减少自己的工作时数，也不愿见到朋友失业，让我们度过黑暗时代。是消防人员的勇气，让他冲进烟雾弥漫的楼梯间，同样的，是父母培育孩子的意愿，最终决定我们的命运。

我们面临的可能是全新的挑战。我们对付它们的工具可能也是全新的。但是那些我们成就所倚仗的价值─努力工作与诚实、勇气与公平竞争、容忍与好奇心、忠诚与爱国主义─都是固有的价值观。这些价值观都是正确的。它们曾经是推动美国各段历史前进的沉默力量。现在要求我们的是新时代的责任－－每一位美国人都要体认到我们对自己、我们的国家以及这个世界有责任，并非不情不愿，而是欣然接受的责任，而是坚信没有什么比全力解决艰难任务，更能获得精神上的满足，更能找到自我。

这是公民的代价与承诺。

这是我们信心的来源─明白上帝在召唤我们形塑尚未确定的命运。

这是我们自由与信念的意义所在─为何不同种族与宗教的男男女女与小孩能在这片大广场上一起庆祝，为什么一个人的父亲在不到60年前可能还被拒绝进当地餐厅用餐，现在却能站在你们面前宣读最神圣的誓言。

让我们记住这一天，记住我们是谁、我们经历的有多少。在美国诞生的那一年，在最寒冷的几个月，一小群爱国者在冰冻的河水岸边拥抱即将熄灭的营火。弃守首府。敌人正在逼进。白雪上血红斑斑。我们革命成果最受质疑的时刻，我们的建国国父下令向人民宣读以下这段话：

「让这段故事流传后世，在隆冬时候，当希望与美德之外，无所幸存之时，这座城市与这个国家，因为一个共同的危险起而警戒，站出来迎向它。」

美国。在面对我们共同的危险时、在这个苦难的冬天、让我们记住这些不朽的话语。藉由希望与美德，让我们再次勇敢面对逆境，忍受可能到来的风暴。让我们孩子的孩子传述下去，当我们遭遇考验，我们拒绝让这趟旅程结束，我们不回头也不踌躇退却，将眼光放在未来，上帝的恩典降临我们身上，我们带着自由这份伟大的礼物，安全地将它送给未来的世代。

第二篇：奥巴马就职演说

Good afternoon.It is a great honor for me to be here in Shanghai, and to have this opportunity to speak with all of you.I'd like to thank Fudan University's President Yang for his hospitality(好客)and his gracious（有礼貌的，亲切的）welcome.I'd also like to thank our outstanding Ambassador（大使）, Jon Huntsman, who exemplifies the deep ties and respect between our nations.I don't know what he said, but I hope it was good.(Laughter.)

What I'd like to do is to make some opening comments, and then what I'm really looking forward to doing is taking questions, not only from students who are in the audience, but also we've received questions online, which will be asked by some of the students who are here in the audience, as well as by Ambassador Huntsman.And I am very sorry that my Chinese is not as good as your English, but I am looking forward to this chance to have a dialogue.This is my first time traveling to China, and I'm excited to see this majestic（雄伟壮丽的，威严的）country.Here, in Shanghai, we see the growth that has caught the attention of the world--the soaring skyscrapers, the bustling（熙攘的）streets and entrepreneurial（企业家的，创业者的）activity.And just as I'm impressed by these signs of China's journey to the 21st century, I'm eager to see those ancient places that speak to us from China's distant past.Tomorrow and the next day I hope to have a chance when I'm in Beijing to see the majesty of the Forbidden City and the wonder of the Great Wall.Truly, this is a nation that encompasses both a rich history and a belief in the promise of the future.The same can be said of the relationship between our two countries.Shanghai, of course, is a city that has great meaning in the history of the relationship between the United States and China.It was here, 37 years ago, that the Shanghai Communique opened the door to a new chapter of engagement between our governments and among our people.However, America's ties to this city--and to this country--stretch back further, to the earliest days of America's independence.In 1784, our founding father, George Washington, commissioned the Empress of China, a ship that set sail for these shores so that it could pursue trade with the Qing Dynasty.Washington wanted to see the ship carry the flag around the globe, and to forge new ties with nations like China.This is a common American impulse--the desire to reach for new horizons, and to forge new partnerships that are mutually beneficial.Over the two centuries that have followed, the currents of history have steered the relationship between our countries in many directions.And even in the midst of tumultuous winds, our people had opportunities to forge deep and even dramatic ties.For instance, Americans will never forget the hospitality shown to our pilots who were shot down over your soil during World War II, and cared for by Chinese civilians who risked all that they had by doing so.And Chinese veterans of that war still warmly greet those American veterans who return to the sites where they fought to help liberate China from occupation.A different kind of connection was made nearly 40 years ago when the frost between our countries began to thaw through the simple game of table tennis.The very unlikely nature of this engagement contributed to its success--because for all our differences, both our common humanity and our shared curiosity were revealed.As one American player described his visit to China--“[The]people are just like us…The country is very similar to America, but still very different.”

Of course this small opening was followed by the achievement of the Shanghai Communique, and the eventual establishment of formal relations between the United States and China in 1979.And in three decades, just look at how far we have come.In 1979, trade between the United States and China stood at roughly $5 billion--today it tops over $400 billion each year.The commerce affects our people's lives in so many ways.America imports from China many of the computer parts we use, the clothes we wear;and we export to China machinery that helps power your industry.This trade could create even more jobs on both sides of the Pacific, while allowing our people to enjoy a better quality of life.And as demand becomes more balanced, it can lead to even broader prosperity.In 1979, the political cooperation between the United States and China was rooted largely in our shared rivalry with the Soviet Union.Today, we have a positive, constructive and comprehensive relationship that opens the door to partnership on the key global issues of our time--economic recovery and the development of clean energy;stopping the spread of nuclear weapons and the scourge of climate change;the promotion of peace and security in Asia and around the globe.All of these issues will be on the agenda tomorrow when I meet with President Hu.And in 1979, the connections among our people were limited.Today, we see the curiosity of those ping-pong players manifested in the ties that are being forged across many sectors.The second highest number of foreign students in the United States come from China, and we've seen a 50 percent increase in the study of Chinese among our own students.There are nearly 200 “friendship cities” drawing our communities together.American and Chinese scientists cooperate on new research and discovery.And of course, Yao Ming is just one signal of our shared love of basketball--I'm only sorry that I won't be able to see a Shanghai Sharks game while I'm visiting.It is no coincidence that the relationship between our countries has accompanied a period of positive change.China has lifted hundreds of millions of people out of poverty--an accomplishment unparalleled in human history--while playing a larger role in global events.And the United States has seen our economy grow along with the standard of living enjoyed by our people, while bringing the Cold War to a successful conclusion.There is a Chinese proverb: “Consider the past, and you shall know the future.” Surely, we have known setbacks and challenges over the last 30 years.Our relationship has not been without disagreement and difficulty.But the notion that we must be adversaries is not predestined--not when we consider the past.Indeed, because of our cooperation, both the United States and China are more prosperous and more secure.We have seen what is possible when we build upon our mutual interests, and engage on the basis of mutual respect.And yet the success of that engagement depends upon understanding--on sustaining an open dialogue, and learning about one another and from one another.For just as that American table tennis player pointed out--we share much in common as human beings, but our countries are different in certain ways.I believe that each country must chart its own course.China is an ancient nation, with a deeply rooted culture.The United States, by comparison, is a young nation, whose culture is determined by the many different immigrants who have come to our shores, and by the founding documents that guide our democracy.Those documents put forward a simple vision of human affairs, and they enshrine several core principles--that all men and women are created equal, and possess certain fundamental rights;that government should reflect the will of the people and respond to their wishes;that commerce should be open, information freely accessible;and that laws, and not simply men, should guarantee the administration of justice.Of course, the story of our nation is not without its difficult chapters.In many ways--over many years--we have struggled to advance the promise of these principles to all of our people, and to forge a more perfect union.We fought a very painful civil war, and freed a portion of our population from slavery.It took time for women to be extended the right to vote, workers to win the right to organize, and for immigrants from different corners of the globe to be fully embraced.Even after they were freed, African Americans persevered through conditions that were separate and not equal, before winning full and equal rights.None of this was easy.But we made progress because of our belief in those core principles, which have served as our compass through the darkest of storms.That is why Lincoln could stand up in the midst of civil war and declare it a struggle to see whether any nation, conceived in liberty, and “dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal” could long endure.That is why Dr.Martin Luther King could stand on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial and ask that our nation live out the true meaning of its creed.That's why immigrants from China to Kenya could find a home on our shores;why opportunity is available to all who would work for it;and why someone like me, who less than 50 years ago would have had trouble voting in some parts of America, is now able to serve as its President.And that is why America will always speak out for these core principles around the world.We do not seek to impose any system of government on any other nation, but we also don't believe that the principles that we stand for are unique to our nation.These freedoms of expression and worship--of access to information and political participation--we believe are universal rights.They should be available to all people, including ethnic and religious minorities--whether they are in the United States, China, or any nation.Indeed, it is that respect for universal rights that guides America's openness to other countries;our respect for different cultures;our commitment to international law;and our faith in the future.These are all things that you should know about America.I also know that we have much to learn about China.Looking around at this magnificent city--and looking around this room--I do believe that our nations hold something important in common, and that is a belief in the future.Neither the United States nor China is content to rest on our achievements.For while China is an ancient nation, you are also clearly looking ahead with confidence, ambition, and a commitment to see that tomorrow's generation can do better than today's.In addition to your growing economy, we admire China's extraordinary commitment to science and research--a commitment borne out in everything from the infrastructure you build to the technology you use.China is now the world's largest Internet user--which is why we were so pleased to include the Internet as a part of today's event.This country now has the world's largest mobile phone network, and it is investing in the new forms of energy that can both sustain growth and combat climate change--and I'm looking forward to deepening the partnership between the United States and China in this critical area tomorrow.But above all, I see China's future in you--young people whose talent and dedication and dreams will do so much to help shape the 21st century.I've said many times that I believe that our world is now fundamentally interconnected.The jobs we do, the prosperity we build, the environment we protect, the security that we seek--all of these things are shared.And given that interconnection, power in the 21st century is no longer a zero-sum game;one country's success need not come at the expense of another.And that is why the United States insists we do not seek to contain China's rise.On the contrary, we welcome China as a strong and prosperous and successful member of the community of nations--a China that draws on the rights, strengths and creativity of individual Chinese like you.To return to the proverb--consider the past.We know that more is to be gained when great powers cooperate than when they collide.That is a lesson that human beings have learned time and again, and that is the example of the history between our nations.And I believe strongly that cooperation must go beyond our government.It must be rooted in our people--in the studies we share, the business that we do, the knowledge that we gain, and even in the sports that we play.And these bridges must be built by young men and women just like you and your counterparts in America.That's why I'm pleased to announce that the United States will dramatically expand the number of our students who study in China to 100,000.And these exchanges mark a clear commitment to build ties among our people, as surely as you will help determine the destiny of the 21st century.And I'm absolutely confident that America has no better ambassadors to offer than our young people.For they, just like you, are filled with talent and energy and optimism about the history that is yet to be written.So let this be the next step in the steady pursuit of cooperation that will serve our nations, and the world.And if there's one thing that we can take from today's dialogue, I hope that it is a commitment to continue this dialogue going forward.So thank you very much.And I look forward now to taking some questions from all of you.Thank you very much.

第三篇：奥巴马就职演说

巴拉克·奥巴马(Barack Obama)于2009年1月20日宣誓就职美国第44任总统。以下是奥巴马总统就职演说的中英文对照全文，中文由美国国务院国际信息局(IIP)根据演说记录稿翻译。

My fellow citizens: I stand here today humbled by the task before us, grateful for the trust you have bestowed, mindful of the sacrifices borne by our ancestors.I thank President Bush for his service to our nation, as well as the generosity and cooperation he has shown throughout this transition.同胞们：

我今天站在这里，深感面前使命的重大，深谢你们赋予的信任，并铭记我们前辈所付的代价。我感谢布什总统对国家的贡献以及他在整个过渡阶段给予的大度合作。

Forty-four Americans have now taken the presidential oath.The words have been spoken during rising tides of prosperity and the still waters of peace.Yet, every so often the oath is taken amidst gathering clouds and raging storms.At these moments, America has carried on not simply because of the skill or vision of those in high office, but because we the people have remained faithful to the ideals of our forebears, and true to our founding documents.至此，有四十四个美国人发出总统誓言。这些字词曾在蒸蒸日上的繁荣时期和宁静安详的和平年代诵读。但是间或，它们也响彻在阴云密布、风暴降临的时刻。美国能够历经这些时刻而勇往直前，不仅因为当政者具有才干或远见，而且也因为“我们人民”始终坚信我们先辈的理想，对我们的建国理念忠贞不渝。

So it has been.So it must be with this generation of Americans.这是过来之路。这是这一代美国的必由之路。

That we are in the midst of crisis is now well understood.Our nation is at war, against a far-reaching network of violence and hatred.Our economy is badly weakened, a consequence of greed and irresponsibility on the part of some, but also our collective failure to make hard choices and prepare the nation for a new age.Homes have been lost;jobs shed;businesses shuttered.Our health care is too costly;our schools fail too many;and each day brings further evidence that the ways we use energy strengthen our adversaries and threaten our planet.我们处于危机之中，这一点已得到充分认识。我国在进行战争，打击分布广泛的暴力和仇恨势力。我们的经济严重衰弱，部分归咎于一些人的贪婪不轨，同时也因为我们作为一个整体，未能痛下决心，让国家作好面对新时代的准备。如今，住房不再，就业减少，商业破产。医疗保健费用过度昂贵；学校质量没有保障；而每一天都在不断显示，我们使用能源的方式在助长敌人的威风，威胁我们的星球。

These are the indicators of crisis, subject to data and statistics.Less measurable but no less profound is a sapping of confidence across our land — a nagging fear that America's decline is inevitable, and that the next generation must lower its sights.这些是危机的迹象，数据统计将予以证明。不易于衡量然而同样严重的是全国各地受动摇的信心——一种挥之不去的恐惧感，认为美国将不可避免地走下坡路，下一代人不得不放低眼光。

Today I say to you that the challenges we face are real.They are serious and they are many.They will not be met easily or in a short span of time.But know this, America — they will be met.今天，我告诉大家，我们面临的挑战真实存在，并且严重而多重。它们不可能在一个短时间内被轻易征服。但是，美国，请记住这句话——它们将被征服。

On this day, we gather because we have chosen hope over fear, unity of purpose over conflict and discord.我们今天聚集在这里是因为我们选择希望而不是恐惧，选择齐心协力而不是冲突对立。

On this day, we come to proclaim an end to the petty grievances and false promises, the recriminations and worn out dogmas, that for far too long have strangled our politics.我们今天在这里宣告，让斤斤计较与虚假承诺就此结束，让窒息我国政治为时太久的相互指责和陈词滥调就此完结。

We remain a young nation, but in the words of Scripture, the time has come to set aside childish things.The time has come to reaffirm our enduring spirit;to choose our better history;to carry forward that precious gift, that noble idea, passed on from generation to generation: the God-given promise that all are equal, all are free and all deserve a chance to pursue their full measure of happiness.我们仍是一个年轻的国家，但用圣经的话说，现在是抛弃幼稚的时侯了。现在应是我们让永恒的精神发扬光大的时侯，应是选择创造更佳历史业绩的时侯，应是将代代相传的宝贵财富、崇高理想向前发展的时侯：上帝赋予所有人平等、所有人自由和所有人充分追求幸福的机会。

In reaffirming the greatness of our nation, we understand that greatness is never a given.It must be earned.Our journey has never been one of shortcuts or settling for less.It has not been the path for the faint-hearted — for those who prefer leisure over work, or seek only the pleasures of riches and fame.Rather, it has been the risk-takers, the doers, the makers of things — some celebrated but more often men and women obscure in their labor, who have carried us up the long, rugged path towards prosperity and freedom.在重申我们国家伟大精神的同时，我们懂得，伟大从非天生，而是必须赢得。我们的历程从来不是走捷径或退而求其次的历程。它不是弱者的道路——它不属于好逸恶劳或只图名利享受的人；这条路属于冒险者，实干家，创造者——有些人享有盛名，但大多数是默默无闻耕耘劳作的男女志士，是他们带我们走向通往繁荣和自由的漫长崎岖之路。

For us, they packed up their few worldly possessions and traveled across oceans in search of a new life.为了我们，他们打点起贫寒的行装上路，远涉重洋，追求新生活。

For us, they toiled in sweatshops and settled the West;endured the lash of the whip and plowed the hard earth.为了我们，他们在血汗工厂劳作，在西部原野拓荒，忍着鞭笞之痛在坚硬的土地上耕耘。

For us, they fought and died, in places like Concord and Gettysburg;Normandy and Khe Sanh.为了我们，他们奔赴疆场，英勇捐躯，长眠于康科德、葛底斯堡、诺曼底和溪山。

Time and again these men and women struggled and sacrificed and worked till their hands were raw so that we might live a better life.They saw America as bigger than the sum of our individual ambitions;greater than all the differences of birth or wealth or faction.为了我们能够过上更好的生活，他们前赴后继，历尽艰辛，全力奉献，不辞劳苦，直至双手结起层层老茧。他们看到的美国超越了我们每一个人的雄心壮志，也超越了所有种族、财富或派系的差异。

This is the journey we continue today.We remain the most prosperous, powerful nation on Earth.Our workers are no less productive than when this crisis began.Our minds are no less inventive, our goods and services no less needed than they were last week or last month or last year.Our capacity remains undiminished.But our time of standing pat, of protecting narrow interests and putting off unpleasant decisions — that time has surely passed.Starting today, we must pick ourselves up, dust ourselves off, and begin again the work of remaking America.今天，作为后来者，我们踏上了这一未竟的旅程。我们依然是地球上最繁荣、最强大的国家。我们的劳动者的创造力并没有因为眼前的这场危机而减弱。我们的头脑依然像以往那样善于发明创新。我们的产品与服务仍旧像上星期、上个月或去年一样受人欢迎。我们的能力丝毫无损。但是，维持现状、保护狭隘的利益集团、推迟困难的抉择的时代无疑已成为过去。从今天起，我们必须振作起来，扫除我们身上的尘土，重新开启再造美国的事业。

For everywhere we look, there is work to be done.The state of the economy calls for action, bold and swift, and we will act — not only to create new jobs, but to lay a new foundation for growth.We will build the roads and bridges, the electric grids and digital lines that feed our commerce and bind us together.We will restore science to its rightful place, and wield technology's wonders to raise health care's quality and lower its cost.We will harness the sun and the winds and the soil to fuel our cars and run our factories.And we will transform our schools and colleges and universities to meet the demands of a new age.All this we can do.All this we will do.无论我们把目光投向何处，都有工作在等待着我们。经济形势要求我们果敢而迅速地行动，我们将不辱使命——不仅要创造新的就业机会，而且要打下新的增长基础。我们将建造道路和桥梁，架设电网，铺设承载我们的商务和把我们紧密相连的电子通讯网络。我们将恢复尊重科学的传统，利用高新技术的超常潜力提高医疗保健质量并降低成本。我们将利用太阳能、风力和地热为车辆和工厂提供能源。我们将改造我们的中小学和高等院校，以应对新时代的挑战。这一切我们都能做到。这一切我们必将做到。

Now, there are some who question the scale of our ambitions — who suggest that our system cannot tolerate too many big plans.Their memories are short.For they have forgotten what this country has already done;what free men and women can achieve when imagination is joined to common purpose, and necessity to courage.现在，有人怀疑我们的雄心壮志——他们说我们的体制不能承受太多的宏伟规划。他们的记忆是短暂的，因为他们忘记了这个国家已经取得的成就，忘记了一旦共同的目标插上理想的翅膀、现实的要求鼓起勇气的风帆，自由的人民就会爆发出无穷的创造力。

What the cynics fail to understand is that the ground has shifted beneath them — that the stale political arguments that have consumed us for so long no longer apply.The question we ask today is not whether our government is too big or too small, but whether it works — whether it helps families find jobs at a decent wage, care they can afford, a retirement that is dignified.Where the answer is yes, we intend to move forward.Where the answer is no, programs will end.Those of us who manage the public's dollars will be held to account — to spend wisely, reform bad habits, and do our business in the light of day — because only then can we restore the vital trust between a people and their government.那些冷眼旁观的人没有认识到他们脚下的大地已经移动——那些长期以来空耗我们的精力的陈腐政治观点已经过时。我们今天提出的问题不是我们的政府太大还是太小，而是它是否行之有效——它是否能够帮助人们找到报酬合理的就业机会，是否能够为他们提供费用适度的医疗保健服务，是否能够确保他们在退休后不失尊严。如果回答是肯定的，我们就要向前推进。如果回答是否定的，计划和项目必须终止。作为公共资金的管理者，我们必须承担责任——明智地使用资金，抛弃坏习惯，在阳光下履行职责——因为只有这样我们才能恢复人民对政府的至关重要的信任。

Nor is the question before us whether the market is a force for good or ill.Its power to generate wealth and expand freedom is unmatched, but this crisis has reminded us that without a watchful eye, the market can spin out of control — and that a nation cannot prosper long when it

favors only the prosperous.The success of our economy has always depended not just on the size of our gross domestic product, but on the reach of our prosperity;on our ability to extend opportunity to every willing heart — not out of charity, but because it is the surest route to our common good.我们提出的问题也不在于市场力量是替天行道还是为虎作伥。市场在生成财富和传播自由方面具有无与伦比的力量，但这场危机提醒我们：没有严格的监督，市场就会失控——如果一个国家仅仅施惠于富裕者，其富裕便不能持久。我们的经济成功从来不是仅仅依赖国内总产值的规模，而是还依赖繁荣的普及，即为每一位愿意致富的人提供机会的能力——不是通过施舍——因为这才是最可靠的共同富裕之路。

As for our common defense, we reject as false the choice between our safety and our ideals.Our founding fathers...our found fathers, faced with perils we can scarcely imagine, drafted a charter to assure the rule of law and the rights of man, a charter expanded by the blood of generations.Those ideals still light the world, and we will not give them up for expedience's sake.And so to all the other peoples and governments who are watching today, from the grandest capitals to the small village where my father was born: know that America is a friend of each nation and every man, woman, and child who seeks a future of peace and dignity, and that we are ready to lead once more.至于我们的共同防御，我们决不接受安全与理念不可两全的荒谬论点。建国先贤面对我们难以想见的险恶局面，起草了一部保障法治和人权的宪章，一部子孙后代以自己的鲜血使之更加完美的宪章。今天，这些理念仍然照耀着世界，我们不会为一时之利而弃之。因此，对于今天正在观看此情此景的其他各国人民和政府──从最繁华的首都到我父亲出生的小村庄──我们希望他们了解：凡追求和平与尊严的国家以及每一位男人、妇女和儿童，美国是你们的朋友。我们已经做好准备，再一次走在前面。

Recall that earlier generations faced down fascism and communism not just with missiles and tanks, but with sturdy alliances and enduring convictions.They understood that our power alone cannot protect us, nor does it entitle us to do as we please.Instead, they knew that our power grows through its prudent use;our security emanates from the justness of our cause, the force of our example, the tempering qualities of humility and restraint.回顾过去，几代人在战胜法西斯主义和共产主义时依靠的不仅仅是导弹和坦克，更是牢固的联盟和不渝的信念。他们懂得单凭实力无法保护我们的安全，实力也并不赋予我们随心所欲的权利。相反，他们知道审慎使用实力会使我们更强大；我们的安全源于事业的正义性、典范的感召力、以及谦卑和克制的平衡作用。

We are the keepers of this legacy.Guided by these principles once more, we can meet those new threats that demand even greater effort — even greater cooperation and understanding between nations.We will begin to responsibly leave Iraq to its people, and forge a hard-earned peace in Afghanistan.With old friends and former foes, we will work tirelessly to lessen the nuclear threat, and roll back the specter of a warming planet.We will not apologize for our way of life, nor will we waver in its defense, and for those who seek to advance their aims by inducing terror and slaughtering innocents, we say to you now that our spirit is stronger and cannot be broken;you cannot outlast us, and we will defeat you.我们是这一传统的继承者。我们只要从新以这些原则为指导，就能应对那些新威胁，为此必须付出更大的努力──推动国家间更多的合作与理解。我们将开始以负责任的方式把伊拉克移交给伊拉克人民，并在阿富汗巩固来之不易的和平。我们将与多年的朋友和昔日的对手一道不懈地努力，减轻核威胁，扭转全球变暖的厄运。我们不会在价值观念上退缩，也不

会动摇捍卫它的决心，对于那些妄图以煽动恐怖和屠杀无辜的手段达到其目的的人，我们现在就告诉你们，我们的意志更加顽强、坚不可摧；你们无法拖垮我们，我们必将战胜你们。

For we know that our patchwork heritage is a strength, not a weakness.We are a nation of Christians and Muslims, Jews and Hindus — and non-believers.We are shaped by every language and culture, drawn from every end of this Earth;and because we have tasted the bitter swill of civil war and segregation, and emerged from that dark chapter stronger and more united, we cannot help but believe that the old hatreds shall someday pass;that the lines of tribe shall soon dissolve;that as the world grows smaller, our common humanity shall reveal itself;and that America must play its role in ushering in a new era of peace.因为我们知道，我们百衲而成的传统是一种优势，而不是劣势。我们是一个由基督教徒和穆斯林、犹太教徒和印度教徒、以及无宗教信仰者组成的国家。我们受惠于地球上四面八方每一种语言和文化的影响。由于我们饮过南北战争和种族隔离的苦水，走出了那个黑暗时代并变得更加坚强和团结，我们不能不相信昔日的仇恨终有一天会成为过去；部族之间的界线很快会消失；随着世界变得越来越小，我们共同的人性将得到彰显；美国必须为迎来一个和平的新纪元发挥自己的作用。

To the Muslim world, we seek a new way forward, based on mutual interest and mutual respect.To those leaders around the globe who seek to sow conflict, or blame their society's ills on the West — know that your people will judge you on what you can build, not what you destroy.To those who cling to power through corruption and deceit and the silencing of dissent, know that you are on the wrong side of history;but that we will extend a hand if you are willing to unclench your fist.面对穆斯林世界，我们寻求一条新的前进道路，以共同利益和相互尊重为基础。对于世界上那些妄图制造矛盾、将自己社会的弊端归罪于西方的领导人，我们奉劝你们：你们的人民将以你们的建设成就而不是你们的毁灭能力来评判你们。对于那些依靠腐败、欺骗、压制不同意见等手段固守权势的人，我们提醒你们：你们站在了历史错误的一边；但只要你们放弃压迫，我们将伸手相助。

To the people of poor nations, we pledge to work alongside you to make your farms flourish and let clean waters flow;to nourish starved bodies and feed hungry minds.And to those nations like ours that enjoy relative plenty, we say we can no longer afford indifference to the suffering outside our borders;nor can we consume the world's resources without regard to effect.For the world has changed, and we must change with it.对于贫困国家的人民，我们保证同你们并肩努力，为你们的农田带来丰收，让清洁的用水取之不竭；使饥饿的身体得以饱食，使饥渴的心灵受到滋润。对于那些象我们一样比较富裕的国家，我们要说我们再不能对他人的苦难无动于衷，也再不能肆意消耗世界的资源。世界已经改变，我们必须与时俱进。

As we consider the road that unfolds before us, we remember with humble gratitude those brave Americans who, at this very hour, patrol far-off deserts and distant mountains.They have something to tell us, just as the fallen heroes who lie in Arlington whisper through the ages.We honor them not only because they are guardians of our liberty, but because they embody the spirit of service;a willingness to find meaning in something greater than themselves.And yet, at this moment — a moment that will define a generation — it is precisely this spirit that must inhabit us all.在思索我们面前的道路时，我们怀着崇敬的心情感谢此刻正在偏远的沙漠和山区巡逻的英勇无畏的美国人。他们向我们述说着什么，正如在阿灵顿公墓长眠的阵亡英雄在漫漫岁月

中低浅的吟诵。我们崇敬他们，不仅因为他们捍卫着我们的自由，而且因为他们代表着献身精神，体现了超越个人，寻求远大理想的意愿。然而，在这个时刻，这个具有划时代意义的时刻，我们大家必须具备的正是这种精神。

For as much as government can do and must do, it is ultimately the faith and determination of the American people upon which this nation relies.It is the kindness to take in a stranger when the levees break, the selflessness of workers who would rather cut their hours than see a friend lose their job which sees us through our darkest hours.It is the firefighter's courage to storm a stairway filled with smoke, but also a parent's willingness to nurture a child, that finally decides our fate.虽然政府能有许多作为也必须有许多作为，但最终离不开美国人民的信仰和决心，这便是我国的立国之本。正是因为人们在大堤崩裂时接纳陌生人的关爱之情，正是因为工人们宁愿减少自己的工时而不愿看到朋友失去工作的无私精神，才使我们度过了最暗淡的时光。正是因为消防队员们有勇气冲进浓烟滚滚的楼道，也正是因为做父母的希望培养一个孩子，我们才能决定最后的命运。

Our challenges may be new.The instruments with which we meet them may be new.But those values upon which our success depends — hard work and honesty, courage and fair play, tolerance and curiosity, loyalty and patriotism — these things are old.These things are true.They have been the quiet force of progress throughout our history.What is demanded then is a return to these truths.What is required of us now is a new era of responsibility — a recognition, on the part of every American, that we have duties to ourselves, our nation, and the world, duties that we do not grudgingly accept but rather seize gladly, firm in the knowledge that there is nothing so satisfying to the spirit, so defining of our character, than giving our all to a difficult task.我们面临的挑战可能前所未闻。我们迎接挑战的方式也可能前所未有。然而，我们赖以成功的价值观──诚实和勤奋、勇气和公平、宽容心和探索精神、忠诚和爱国──均由来以久。这些价值观都是千真万确的。这些价值观是我国整个历史过程中一股无声的进步力量。现在需要的便是重归这些真理。我们现在需要做的是开创负责任的新时代──每一位美国人都需要认识到我们对自己、对国家、对全世界都承担着义务。对于这些义务，我们并非勉强接受，而是心甘情愿主动承担，同时坚信我们为艰巨的使命付出一切，没有任何事可以如此满足我们的道义感，也没有任何事能如此体现我们的特性。

This is the price and the promise of citizenship.这就是公民的义务和承诺。

This is the source of our confidence — the knowledge that God calls on us to shape an uncertain destiny.这就是我们自信的来源──认识到上帝呼唤我们在前途不明的情况下掌握自己的命运。

This is the meaning of our liberty and our creed — why men and women and children of every race and every faith can join in celebration across this magnificent Mall, and why a man whose father less than sixty years ago might not have been served at a local restaurant can now stand before you to take a most sacred oath.这就是我们的自由和我们坚守的信条具有的意义──说明了为什么各种族、各类信仰的男女老少能在这个雄伟的大草坪上欢聚一堂，也说明了为什么今天有人能站在这里进行最庄严的宣誓，但他的父亲在不到60年前还不能在当地餐馆受到接待。

So let us mark this day with remembrance, of who we are and how far we have traveled.In the year of America's birth, in the coldest of months, a small band of patriots huddled by dying campfires on the shores of an icy river.The capital was abandoned.The enemy was advancing.The snow was stained with blood.At a moment when the outcome of our revolution was most in

doubt, the father of our nation ordered these words be read to the people: “Let it be told to the future world...that in the depth of winter, when nothing but hope and virtue could survive...that the city and the country, alarmed at one common danger, came forth to meet(it).” 为此，让我们记住这一天，记住我们是什么样的人，记住我们已经走过了多长的路。在美利坚诞生的年月，在那些最寒冷的日子里，为数不多的爱国者聚集在一条冰河的岸边，身旁的篝火即将熄灭。首都已经撤防。敌人正在进军。雪地沾满了斑斑血迹。在我们的革命何去何从，结局最难以估计的时刻，我国的开国元勋决定向人民宣读以下这段话：

“让我们昭告未来的世界......在这个酷寒的冬季，万物一片萧苏，只有希望和美德坚忍不拔的时候......这个城市和这个国家，受到共同危难的召唤，挺身而出，奋起迎战。” America, in the face of our common dangers, in this winter of our hardship, let us remember these timeless words.With hope and virtue, let us brave once more the icy currents, and endure what storms may come.Let it be said by our children's children that when we were tested we refused to let this journey end, that we did not turn back nor did we falter;and with eyes fixed on the horizon and God's grace upon us, we carried forth that great gift of freedom and delivered it safely to future generations.美利坚，在我们面临共同危难之际，在我们遇到艰难险阻的冬日，让我们牢记这些永恒的话语。心怀希望和美德，让我们再一次迎着寒风中流击水，不论什么风暴来袭，必将坚不可摧。今后，让我们的后代子孙如此评说：我们在遇到考验的时候没有半途而废，没有退缩不前，也没有丝毫动摇；让我们全神贯注于前方的目标，感谢上帝对我们的恩典，继承自由这个宝贵的传统，世代相传，永志不忘。

Thank you.God bless you.And God bless the United States of America.谢谢。上帝保佑你们。天佑美国。

第四篇：奥巴马就职演说

奥巴马就职演说

词汇与短语 part1 *humble ['hʌmbl] adj.1.谦卑的，谦虚的，谦恭的，恭顺的2.(等级、身份、重要性等)低下的；粗劣的，粗陋的；微末的3.(自我感觉)卑微的；卑下的4.卑躬屈膝的，奴颜媚骨的 vt.1.使谦恭，使谦卑；使温顺：例句: to humble oneself 自卑，低声下气to humble one's heart 谦恭，温顺2.压下…的锐气，使威风扫地：例句: He was humbled by her good scolding.她的一顿数落打掉了他的锐气。3.使卑贱；贬低；羞辱：例句: They tried to humble your importance in that achievement.他们企图贬低你在那次功绩中的重要作用。近义词: lowly.meek.modest.反义词: proud.conceited.*bestow [bi'stəu] vt.使用；授予；放置；留宿 bestow for： 留宿

*mindful ['maindful] adj.留心的；记住的；警觉的 *sacrifice ['sækrifais] n.牺牲；祭品；供奉 vt.牺牲；献祭；亏本出售 vi.献祭；奉献

*borne [bɔ:n] v.忍受；负荷；结果实；生子女（bear的过去分词）*ancestor ['ænsestə] n.始祖，祖先；被继承人 *generosity [,dʒenə'rɔsəti]

• n.慷慨，大方；宽宏大量 • [ 复数generosities ]

*cooperation [kəu,ɔpə'reiʃən] n.合作，协作；协力

*transition [træn'siʒən,-'ziʃən, trɑ:n-] n.过渡；转变；转换；[音]变调（文中政权转移）*presidential [,prezi'denʃəl] adj.总统的；统辖的；首长的 *oath [əuθ] n.誓言，誓约；诅咒，咒骂

The words have been spoken during rising tides of prosperity 这些字词曾在蒸蒸日上的繁荣时期

*tide [taid] n.趋势，潮流；潮汐vt.随潮漂流（汰渍）*prosperity [prɔs'periti] n.繁荣，成功[ 复数prosperities ] and the still waters of peace和宁静安详的和平年代诵读 *still adj.静止的，不动的；寂静的，平静的 every so often adv.偶尔；常常；时常

*amidst [ə'midst] prep.在…当中 下文midst同义 raging storms 风暴降临的时刻

*forbear ['fɔ:'bεə] vt.忍耐；克制vi.忍耐；克制n.祖先

and true to our founding documents.： 对我们的建国理念忠贞不渝 *crisis ['kraisis] n.危机

Homes have been lost;jobs shed;businesses shuttered 住房不再，就业减少，商业破产 *hatred ['heitrid] n.憎恨；怨恨；敌意 *greed [ɡri:d] n.贪婪，贪心

*irresponsibility ['iri,spɔnsə'biləti] n.无责任，无责任感 *adversary ['ædvəsəri] n.对手；敌手 复数adversaries worthy adversaries重量级的对手

*measurable ['meʒərəbl] adj.可测量的；重要的；重大的厚的；意义深远的；渊博的 *profound [prəu'faund] adj.深厚的；意义深远的；渊博的 a nagging fear挥之不去的恐惧（sapping 削弱）

*inevitable [in'evitəbl] adj.必然的，不可避免的 in a short span of time 短时间内，短期内

*conflict n.冲突，矛盾；斗争；争执vi.冲突，抵触；争执；战斗 *discord ['diskɔ:d, dis'kɔ:d] n.不和；不调和；嘈杂声vi.不一致；刺耳 *proclaim [prəu'kleim] vt.声明；宣告，公布；表明；赞扬 *petty ['peti] adj.小规模的；小气的；琐碎的 *grievance ['ɡri:vəns] n.不满，不平；委屈；冤情 *recrimination n.反责，反控；揭丑

On this day, we come to proclaim an end to the petty grievances and false promises, the recriminations and worn-out dogmas…

今天，我们是来宣布，结束无谓的抱怨和不实的承诺，结束相互的指责和陈旧的教条… *strangle ['stræŋgl]

vt.把…勒死；使…窒息 vi.窒息而死；被勒死

第五篇：奥巴马就职演说

My fellow citizens:

I stand here today humbled by the task before us, grateful for the trust you have bestowed, mindful of the sacrifices borne by our ancestors.I thank President Bush for his service to our nation, as well as the generosity and cooperation he has shown throughout this transition.Forty-four Americans have now taken the presidential oath.The words have been spoken during rising tides of prosperity and the still waters of peace.Yet, every so often the oath is taken amidst gathering clouds and raging storms.At these moments, America has carried on not simply because of the skill or vision of those in high office, but because We the People have remained faithful to the ideals of our forbearers, and true to our founding documents.So it has been.So it must be with this generation of Americans.That we are in the midst of crisis is now well understood.Our nation is at war, against a far-reaching network of violence and hatred.Our economy is badly weakened, a consequence of greed and irresponsibility on the part of some, but also our collective failure to make hard choices and prepare the nation for a new age.Homes have been lost;jobs shed;businesses shuttered.Our health care is too costly;our schools fail too many;and each day brings further evidence that the ways we use energy strengthen our adversaries and threaten our planet.These are the indicators of crisis, subject to data and statistics.Less measurable but no less profound is a sapping of confidence across our landthey will be met.On this day, we gather because we have chosen hope over fear, unity of purpose over conflict and discord.On this day, we come to proclaim an end to the petty grievances and false promises, the recriminations and worn out dogmas, that for far too long have strangled our politics.We remain a young nation, but in the words of Scripture, the time has come to set aside childish things.The time has come to reaffirm our enduring spirit;to choose our better history;to carry forward that precious gift, that noble idea, passed on from generation to generation: the God-given promise that all are equal, all are free, and all deserve a chance to pursue their full measure of happiness.In reaffirming the greatness of our nation, we understand that greatness is never a given.It must be earned.Our journey has never been one of short-cuts or settling for less.It has not been the path for the faint-heartedsome celebrated but more often men and women obscure in their labor, who have carried us up the long, rugged path towards prosperity and freedom.For us, they packed up their few worldly possessions and traveled across oceans in search of a new life.For us, they toiled in sweatshops and settled the West;endured the lash of the whip and plowed the hard earth.For us, they fought and died, in places like Concord and Gettysburg;Normandy and Khe Sanh.Time and again these men and women struggled and sacrificed and worked till their hands were raw so that we might live a better life.They saw America as bigger than the sum of our individual ambitions;greater than all the differences of birth or wealth or faction.This is the journey we continue today.We remain the most prosperous, powerful nation on Earth.Our workers are no less productive than when this crisis began.Our minds are no less inventive, our goods and services no less needed than they were last week or last month or last year.Our capacity remains undiminished.But our time of standing pat, of protecting narrow interests and putting off unpleasant decisionsnot only to create new jobs, but to lay a new foundation for growth.We will build the roads and bridges, the electric grids and digital lines that feed our commerce and bind us together.We will restore science to its rightful place, and wield technology's wonders to raise health care's quality and lower its cost.We will harness the sun and the winds and the soil to fuel our cars and run our factories.And we will transform our schools and colleges and universities to meet the demands of a new age.All this we can do.And all this we will do.Now, there are some who question the scale of our ambitionsthat the stale political arguments that have consumed us for so long no longer apply.The question we ask today is not whether our government is too big or too small, but whether it worksto spend wisely, reform bad habits, and do our business in the light of dayand that a nation cannot prosper long when it favors only the prosperous.The success of our economy has always depended not just on the size of our Gross Domestic Product, but on the reach of our prosperity;on our ability to extend opportunity to every willing hearteven greater cooperation and understanding between nations.We will begin to responsibly leave Iraq to its people, and forge a hard-earned peace in Afghanistan.With old friends and former foes, we will work tirelessly to lessen the nuclear threat, and roll back the specter of a warming planet.We will not apologize for our way of life, nor will we waver in its defense, and for those who seek to advance their aims by inducing terror and slaughtering innocents, we say to you now that our spirit is stronger and cannot be broken;you cannot outlast us, and we will defeat you.Now, there are some who question the scale of our ambitionsthat the stale political arguments that have consumed us for so long no longer apply.The question we ask today is not whether our government is too big or too small, but whether it worksto spend wisely, reform bad habits, and do our business in the light of dayand that a nation cannot prosper long when it favors only the prosperous.The success of our economy has always depended not just on the size of our Gross Domestic Product, but on the reach of our prosperity;on our ability to extend opportunity to every willing hearteven greater cooperation and understanding between nations.We will begin to responsibly leave Iraq to its people, and forge a hard-earned peace in Afghanistan.With old friends and former foes, we will work tirelessly to lessen the nuclear threat, and roll back the specter of a warming planet.We will not apologize for our way of life, nor will we waver in its defense, and for those who seek to advance their aims by inducing terror and slaughtering innocents, we say to you now that our spirit is stronger and cannot be broken;you cannot outlast us, and we will defeat you.For we know that our patchwork heritage is a strength, not a weakness.We are a nation of Christians and Muslims, Jews and Hindusknow that your people will judge you on what you can build, not what you destroy.To those who cling to power through corruption and deceit and the silencing of dissent, know that you are on the wrong side of history;but that we will extend a hand if you are willing to unclench your fist.To the people of poor nations, we pledge to work alongside you to make your farms flourish and let clean waters flow;to nourish starved bodies and feed hungry minds.And to those nations like ours that enjoy relative plenty, we say we can no longer afford indifference to suffering outside our borders;nor can we consume the world's resources without regard to effect.For the world has changed, and we must change with it.As we consider the road that unfolds before us, we remember with humble gratitude those brave Americans who, at this very hour, patrol far-off deserts and distant mountains.They have something to tell us today, just as the fallen heroes who lie in Arlington whisper through the ages.We honor them not only because they are guardians of our liberty, but because they embody the spirit of service;a willingness to find meaning in something greater than themselves.And yet, at this momentit is precisely this spirit that must inhabit us all.For as much as government can do and must do, it is ultimately the faith and determination of the American people upon which this nation relies.It is the kindness to take in a stranger when the levees break, the selflessness of workers who would rather cut their hours than see a friend lose their job which sees us through our darkest hours.It is the firefighter's courage to storm a stairway filled with smoke, but also a parent's willingness to nurture a child, that finally decides our fate.Our challenges may be new.The instruments with which we meet them may be new.But those values upon which our success dependsthese things are old.These things are true.They have been the quiet force of progress throughout our history.What is demanded then is a return to these truths.What is required of us now is a new era of responsibilitythe knowledge that God calls on us to shape an uncertain destiny.This is the meaning of our liberty and our creed-why men and women and children of every race and every faith can join in celebration across this magnificent mall, and why a man whose father less than sixty years ago might not have been served at a local restaurant can now stand before you to take a most sacred oath.So let us mark this day with remembrance, of who we are and how far we have traveled.In the year of America's birth, in the coldest of months, a small band of patriots huddled by dying campfires on the shores of an icy river.The capital was abandoned.The enemy was advancing.The snow was stained with blood.At a moment when the outcome of our revolution was most in doubt, the father of our nation ordered these words be read to the people:

“Let it be told to the future world……that in the depth of winter, when nothing but hope and virtue could survive……that the city and the country, alarmed at one common danger, came forth to meet [it].”

America.In the face of our common dangers, in this winter of our hardship, let us remember these timeless words.With hope and virtue, let us brave once more the icy currents, and endure what storms may come.Let it be said by our children's children that when we were tested we refused to let this journey end, that we did not turn back nor did we falter;and with eyes fixed on the horizon and God's grace upon us, we carried forth that great gift of freedom and delivered it safely to future generations.