第一篇：奥巴马发表讲话(中英文).
奥巴马发表讲话(中英文)
当地时间4月15日，美国波士顿马拉松比赛终点线附近发生爆炸，目前造成至少3人死亡141人受伤。美国总统奥巴马在爆炸发生后3个多小时后发表全国电视讲话。以下为全文内容：
Good afternoon, everybody.Earlier today, I was briefed by my homeland security team on.We're continuing to monitor and respond to the situation as it unfolds.And I've directed the full resources of the federal government to help state and local authorities protect our people, increase security around the United States as necessary, and investigate what happened.大家下午好。我刚刚听取了了国土安全局就波士顿爆炸事件的汇报。我们将继续随情况发展进行监察并作出反应。我已下令联邦政府动用全部资源，协助州和地方当局保护人民的安全，在全美提高必要的安保水平，并调查事件真相。
The American people will say a prayer for Boston tonight.And Michelle and I send our deepest thoughts and prayers to the families of the victims in the wake of this senseless loss.美国人民今晚会为波士顿祈祷。米歇尔和我把我们最深切的思念和祈祷传递给受难者及其家属，对他们失去亲人表示哀悼。
We don't yet have all the answers.But we do know that multiple people have been wounded, some gravely, in explosions at the Boston Marathon.我们尚未知晓所有情况。但我们知道，波士顿马拉松比赛中多人受伤，有的极其严重。I've spoken to FBI Director Mueller and Secretary of Homeland Security Napolitano, and they're mobilizing the appropriate resources to investigate and to respond.我已经与联邦调查局局长米勒和国家安全部部长纳波利塔诺通过话，他们将调动所需的资源来调查并对此做出处理。
I've updated leaders of Congress in both parties, and we reaffirmed that on days like this there are no Republicans or Democrats — we are Americans, united in concern for our fellow citizens.我已对国会的两党领导人通报了最新情况，我们重申在这样的日子没有共和党或民主党之分，因为我们都是美国人，我们团结在一起，心系我们的同胞。
I've also spoken with Governor Patrick and Mayor Menino, and made it clear that they have every single federal resource necessary to care for the victims and counsel the families.And above all, I made clear to them that all Americans stand with the people of Boston.我也跟帕特里克州长和波士顿梅尼诺市长通过话，并清楚告诉他们，我们将调动一切资源来关怀遇难者并抚恤其家属。最重要的是，我清楚地告诉他们，所有的美国人都和波士顿人民同在。
Boston police, firefighters, and first responders as well as the National Guard responded heroically, and continue to do so as we speak.It's a reminder that so many Americans serve and sacrifice on our behalf every single day, without regard to their own safety, in dangerous and difficult circumstances.And we salute all those who assisted in responding so quickly and professionally to this tragedy.波士顿的警察、消防队员、应急人员以及国民警卫队正在并将继续英勇应对。它提醒人们，我们有这么多美国人每天为了我们奉献和牺牲，不顾自身安危在危险和艰难的情境中挺身而出。我们向他们在恐怖爆炸中的的快速反应和专业应对敬礼。
We still do not know who did this or why.And people shouldn't jump to conclusions before we have all the facts.But make no mistake — we will get to the bottom of this.And we will find out who did this;we'll find out why they did this.Any responsible individuals, any responsible groups will feel the full weight of justice.我们仍然不知道是谁制造了这次恐怖袭击，以及他们为什么这样做。我们不必急着下结论。但毫无疑问，我们会追查到底。我们会找出谁干的，动机是什么。任何与此案相关的个人和团体，都将受到正义的严惩。
Today is a holiday in Massachusetts — Patriots' Day.It's a day that celebrates the free and fiercely independent spirit that this great American city of Boston has reflected from the earliest days of our nation.And it's a day that draws the world to Boston's streets in a spirit of friendly competition.Boston is a tough and resilient town.So are its people.I'm supremely confident that Bostonians will pull together, take care of each other, and move forward as one proud city.And as they do, the American people will be with them every single step of the way.今天是马萨诸塞州的节日-爱国者日。这一天，我们都在庆祝这个伟大的美国城市波士顿的自由和激烈的独立精神，这是我们的勇士们在建国初期展现出的英勇战斗精神。这一天，在波士顿的大街上，马拉松比赛友好竞争的精神吸引了全世界的目光。波士顿是一个坚韧的城市，波士顿人民同样坚韧！我有一万个理由相信，波士顿会齐心协力彼此照顾，以一个自豪的心态勇往直前。这一路上每一步全体美国人民都将和他们一起。
You should anticipate that as we get more information, our teams will provide you briefings.We're still in the investigation stage at this point.But I just want to reiterate we will find out who did this and we will hold them accountable.有一点是肯定的，我们会调查事件获取更多信息，我们将随时通报情况。我想说的是，我们仍然处在调查阶段。但我想重申的是，我们誓将揪出真正的凶手并将追究他们的责任。Thank you very much.谢谢！
第二篇：奥巴马在上海发表演讲(中英文)
奥巴马在上海发表演讲（中英对照）
你好。诸位下午好。我感到很荣幸能够有机会到上海跟你们交谈，我要感谢复旦大学的杨校长，感谢他的款待和热情的欢迎。我还想感谢我们出色的大使洪博培，他是我们两国间深厚的纽带。我不知道他刚才说什么，但是希望他说得很好。
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 and his gracious welcome.I'd also like to thank our outstanding Ambassador, 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.)我今天准备这样，先做一个开场白，我真正希望做的是回答在座的问题，不但回答在座的学生问题，同时还可以从网上得到一些问题，由在座的一些学生和洪博培大使代为提问。很抱歉，我的中文远不如你们的英文，所以我期待和你们的对话。
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.这是我首次访问中国，我看到你们博大的国家，感到很兴奋。在上海这里，我们看到了瞩目的增长，高耸的塔楼，繁忙的街道，还有企业家的精神。这些都是中国步入21世纪的迹象，让我感到赞叹。
This is my first time traveling to China, and I'm excited to see this majestic country.Here, in Shanghai, we see the growth that has caught the attention of the world--the soaring skyscrapers, the bustling streets and entrepreneurial 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.同时我也急切的要看到向我们展现中国古老的古迹，明天和后天我要到北京去看雄伟壮丽的故宫和令人叹为观止的长城，这个国度既有丰富的历史，又有对未来憧憬的信念。
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.而我们两国的关系也是如此，上海在美中关系的历史中是个具有意义的重大城市，在30年前，《上海公报》打开了我们两国政府和两国人民接触交往的新的篇章。
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.不过美国与这个国家的纽带可以追溯更久远的过去，追溯到美国独立的初期，乔治〃 华盛顿组织了皇后号的下水仪式，这个船成功前往大清王朝，华盛顿希望看到这艘船前往各地，与中国结成新的纽带。希望中国开辟新的地平线，建立新的伙伴关系。
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.在其后的两个世纪中，历史洪流使我们两国关系向许多不同的方向发展，而即使在最动荡的方向中，我们的两国人民打造深的，甚至有戏剧性的纽带，比如美国人永远不会忘记，在二战期间，美国飞行员在中国上空被击落后，当地人民对他们的款待，中国公民冒着失去一切的危险罩着他们。而参加二战的老兵仍然欢迎故地重游的美国老兵，他们在那里参战。
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.40年前，我们两国间开启了又一种联系，两国关系开始解冻，通过乒乓球的比赛解冻关系。我们两国之 间有着分歧，但是我们也有着共同的人性及有着共同的好奇，就像一位乒乓球运动员一样，那时的国家就是一样，但是这个小小的开头带来了《上海公报》的问世，最终还带来了美中在1979年建交。在其后的30年我们又取得了长足的进展，1979年美中贸易只有50亿美元，现在已经超过了4000亿美元。
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.贸易在许多方面影响人民的生活，比如美国电脑中许多部件，还有穿的衣服都是从中国进口的，我们向中国出口中国工业要使用的机器，这种贸易可以在太平洋两岸创造更多的就业机会，让我们的人民过上质量更高的生活。
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.1979，美中两国主要基于共同的竞争对手苏联而建立了政治合作关系。如今我们有着积极合作和全面的关系，为我们在当前重大的全球问题上建立伙伴关系打开了大门，这些问题包括经济复苏、洁净能源的开发、制止核武器扩散以及应对气候变化。还有在亚洲及全球各地促进和平和稳定，所有这些问题我明天与胡主席会谈时都会谈到。
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.1979年的时候，我们两国人民的联系十分有限，如今当年乒乓球运动员的好奇可以在许多领域建立的联系中都可以看到，在美国，中国留学生的数量排在第二位。而在美国的学生中，学中文的人数增加了50%。我们两国有近200个友好城市，美中科学家在许多新的研究领域和发现领域进行合作，而我们两国人民都热爱篮球，姚明就是个例子。不过，此行中我不能观看上海鲨鱼队的比赛，有点遗憾。
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.那么我们两国之间的这种关系给我们带来了积极的变化，这并不是偶然的，中国使得亿万人民脱贫，而这种成就是人类历史上史无前例的。而中国在全球问题中也发挥更大的作用，美国也目睹了我们经济的成长。
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.中国有句古言，温故而知新。当然，我们过去30年中也遇到了挫折和挑战，我们的关系并不是没有困难的，没有分歧的。但是我们必须一定是对手这种想法不应该是一成不变的。由于我们两国的合作，美中两国都变得更加繁荣、更加安全。我们基于相互的利益、相互的尊重就能有成就。
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.不过，这种接触的成功要取决于我们要彼此了解，要能够进行开诚布公的对话，彼此进行了解。就像当年美国乒乓球运动员所说的，我们作为人有着共同的向往，但是我们两国又不同。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.我认为我们两国每个国家都应该勾画出自己要走的路，中国是一个文明古国，它有着博大精深的文化。相对而言，美国是一个年轻的国家，它的文化受到来自许多不同国家移民的影响，而指导我们民主制度文件的影响，我有一个非常简单的向往，代表了一些核心的原则，就是所有的人生来平等，都有着基本的权利，而政府应当反映人们的意志，贸易应该是开放的，信息流通应当是自由的，而法律要保证这个公平。
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.当然，我们的国家历史也不是没有过困难的地方，从很多方面来讲，很多年以来，我们是通过斗争来促进这些原则或者是所有的人民能够享受到，为了缔造一个更完美的联合，我们也打过一个很痛苦的内战，把一部分我们被奴役的人口释放出来，经过一段时间才能使妇女有投票权，劳工有组织权，包括来自各地的移民能够全部不接受。即使他们被解放以后，非洲与美国人也和美国人经过一些分开的、不平等的条件，经过一段时间才争取到全面的平等权利，所有这些是不容易的。但是我们对这些核心原则的信念我们取得的进展，在最黑暗的风暴当中是作为我们的指南针。
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.这就是为什么美国永远为了全世界各地的核心原则说话，我们不寻求把任何政治体制强制给任何国家，但是我们也不认为我们所支持的这些原则是我们国家所独有的，这些表达自由、宗教崇拜自由、接触信息的机会、政治的参与，我们认为这些是普世的权利，应该是所有人民能够享受到，包括少数民族和宗教的族群，不管是在中国、美国和任何国家，对于普遍权利的尊敬，作为美国对其他国家的开放态度的指导原则，我们对其他文化的尊重，我们对国际法的承诺和对未来的信念的原则。
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.所有这些都是你们知道关于美国的一些情况，我们有很多要从中国学习。我们看看这个伟大城市的各地，也看看这个房间，我就相信我们两国有很重要的共同点，也就是对未来的信念，不管是美国还是中国，对现在的成就不能感到自满。
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.虽然中国是一个古老的国家，你们也是充满信心展望未来，致力于下一代能够比这一代做的更好，除了 你们不断增长的经济之外，我们很配合中国在科学和研究方面所投入的力量，包括建设的基础设施和使用的技术，中国是世界上使用互联网技术最多的国家，这就是我们很高兴互联网是今天活动的一部分，这个国家也拥有最大的机动电话网络，对新的投资保持继续增长，和应对气候变化方面有新的投资，我也希望两国加强这方面的合作。但是更重要是看到年轻人你们的才能、你们的献身精神、你们的梦想在21世纪实现方面会发挥很大的作用。
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.我说过很多次，我认为世界是互相连接的，我们所做的工作，我们所建立的繁荣，我们所保护的环境，我们所追求的安全，所有这些都是共同的，而且是互相连接的，所以21世纪的实力不在零和游戏，一个国家成功不应该以另外一个国家的牺牲作为代价。
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.这就是我们为什么不寻求遏制中国的崛起。相反，我们欢迎中国作为一个国际社会的强的、繁荣的、成功的成员。
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.再回到刚才的谚语，我们应该考虑过去。在大的国家合作的时候，就比互相碰撞会取得更多得好处，这就是人类在历史上不断吸取的教训。我认为我们合作应该是超越政府间的合作，应该是以人民为基础，我们所研究的内容，我们所从事的生意，我们送获得的知识，我们所进行的体育比赛，所有这些桥梁必须是年轻人共同合作建立起来。
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.这就是我为什么非常高兴我们要大大的宣布我们到中国学习的留学生人数，要增加到10万人。这样交流就会表现出我们是愿意致力于加强两国人民的联系，而且我是绝对有信心。对美国来说，最好的大使、最好的使者就是年轻人，他们和你们一样，很有才能，充满活力，对未来的历史还是很乐观的，这是我们合作的下一步，惠及两国和全世界。
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.今天可以吸收的一个最重要的内容就是我们不断的向前推进。非常感谢。现在欢迎各位提问题。
So thank you very much.And I look forward now to taking some questions from all of you.Thank you very much.(Applause.)4
第三篇：奥巴马发表讲话悼念曼德拉
奥巴马发表讲话悼念曼德拉
2013年12月5日，南非前总统曼德拉因病逝世，享年95岁。美国总统奥巴马发表电视讲话悼念曼德拉，称曼德拉是正义、平等和尊严的象征，他属于一个时代。
Statement by the President on the Death of Nelson Mandela
At his trial in 1964, Nelson Mandela closed his statement from the dock saying, “I have fought against white domination, and I have fought against black domination.I have cherished the ideal of a democratic and free society in which all persons live together in harmony and with equal opportunities.It is an ideal which I hope to live for and to achieve.But if needs be, it is an ideal for which I am prepared to die.”
纳尔逊·曼德拉在1964年接受审判时在被告席上结束他的陈述时说：“我曾为反对白人统治而斗争，也曾为反对黑人统治而斗争。我一直珍藏着一个民主、自由的社会理想，让所有人都生活在一个和谐共处、机会均等的社会中。我希望为这个理想而生并将其付诸实现。但是，如果需要，我也愿为这样一个理想献出生命。”
trial n.试验；审讯；努力；磨炼adj.试验的；审讯的 nelson Mandela 纳尔逊·曼德拉（前南非总统）
dock n.码头；船坞；被告席；尾巴的骨肉部分vt.使靠码头；剪短vi.入船坞
domination n.控制；支配
cherish vt.珍爱vt.怀有（感情等）；抱有（希望等）idealn.理想；典范 adj.理想的；完美的；想象的；不切实际的 democratic adj.民主的；民主政治的；大众的 harmony n.协调；和睦；融洽；调和
And Nelson Mandela lived for that ideal, and he made it real.He achieved more than could be expected of any man.Today, he has gone home.And we have lost one of the most influential, courageous, and profoundly good human beings that any of us will share time with on this Earth.He no longer belongs to us--he belongs to the ages.纳尔逊·曼德拉为这个理想而生，并将其变成现实。他的成就超出了我们能够寄望于任何一个人去取得的。今天，他安息了。而我们失去了一位我们任何一个人能在这个地球上与之共渡时光的人中，最有影响力、最有勇气、最无比善良的一位。他不再属于我们——他属于一个时代。
influential adj.有影响的；有势力的n.有影响力的人物 courageous adj.有胆量的，勇敢的 profoundly adv.深刻地；深深地；极度地
Through his fierce dignity and unbending will to sacrifice his own freedom for the freedom of others, Madiba transformed South Africa--and moved all of us.His journey from a prisoner to a President embodied the promise that human beings--and countries--can change for the better.His commitment to transfer power and reconcile with those who jailed him set an example that all humanity should aspire to, whether in the lives of nations or our own personal lives.And the fact that he did it all with grace and good humor, and an ability to acknowledge his own imperfections, only makes the man that much more remarkable.As he once said, “I am not a saint, unless you think of a saint as a sinner who keeps on trying.”
曼德拉以其强烈的尊严和为了他人的自由不惜牺牲自己的自由的不折的意志，改变了南非的面貌，并感动了我们所有人。他从一名囚徒变成一位总统的历程体现了全人类——以及各个国家——都能变得更美好的希望。他移交权力并同那些关押他的人和解的承诺，树立了一个全人类都应当追求的典范，不论是在国家生活中，还是在我们的个人生活中。而他在做到这一切时还能保持风度和幽默，以及承认自己的不足的能力，这使他更加卓尔不群。他曾说过：“我不是一个圣人，除非你们认为圣人是一个不断努力的罪人。”
unbending adj.坚定的；不易弯曲的；冷漠的n.随意；舒畅v.将„弄直；松弛；伸直（unbend的ing形式）journey n.旅行；行程vi.旅行
embodied v.呈现（embody的过去式及过去分词形式）；具体表达 commitment n.承诺，保证；委托；承担义务；献身
transfer n.转让；转移；传递；过户vt.使转移；调任vi.转让；转学；换车
reconcile vt.使一致；使和解；调停，调解；使顺从 aspire vi.渴望；立志；追求
remarkable adj.卓越的；非凡的；值得注意
saint n.圣人；圣徒；道德崇高的人adj.神圣的vt.成为圣徒 sinner n.罪人；有错者
I am one of the countless millions who drew inspiration from Nelson Mandela's life.My very first political action, the first thing I ever did that involved an issue or a policy or politics, was a protest against apartheid.I studied his words and his writings.The day that he was released from prison gave me a sense of what human beings can do when they’re guided by their hopes and not by their fears.And like so many around the globe, I cannot fully imagine my own life without the example that Nelson Mandela set, and so long as I live I will do what I can to learn from him.在被纳尔逊·曼德拉的经历所激励的亿万人中，我是其中一员。我的第一次政治行动——我所做的与一项议题或政策或政治有关的第一件事——就是抗议种族歧视。我认真研读了他的话和他的著作。他走出监狱的那一天，我认识到人类能够在自己的希望——而不是恐惧——引领下所能成就的事业。正如全球各地许许多多的人一 样，我无法充分想象没有纳尔逊·曼德拉的榜样我的生活会是怎样。在我的有生之年，我将尽最大努力向他学习。countless adj.无数的；数不尽的
drew v.牵引（draw的过去式）；描绘；起草 political adj.政治的；党派的
politics n.政治，政治学；政治活动；政纲 apartheid n.种族隔离
guided adj.有指导的；有向导的 To Graca Machel and his family, Michelle and I extend our deepest sympathy and gratitude for sharing this extraordinary man with us.His life’s work meant long days away from those who loved him the most.And I only hope that the time spent with him these last few weeks brought peace and comfort to his family.米歇尔和我谨向格拉萨·马歇尔和曼德拉的家人致以最深沉的慰唁，并感谢他们与我们分享这位不平凡的人。他的毕生努力意味着长年累月远离最爱他的人们。我真切地希望与他共同度过的最后这几个星期为他的家人带来了平静与安慰。
To the people of South Africa, we draw strength from the example of renewal, andreconciliation, and resilience that you made real.A free South Africa at peace with itself--that’s an example to the world, and that’s Madiba’s legacy to the nation he loved.对南非人民，我们要说，你们通过重生、和解与坚毅树立的榜样给了我们力量。一个自由、和平的南非——这是世界的榜样，这是“马迪巴”(曼德拉的家族名)为他所热爱的国家留下的遗产。graca Machel gratitude n.感谢（的心情）；感激
extraordinary adj.非凡的；特别的；离奇的；临时的；特派的 meant v.意味；打算（mean的过去式和过去分词）；表示„的意思 draw n.平局；抽签vi.拉；拖vt.画；拉；吸引 renewal n.更新，恢复；复兴；补充；革新；续借；重申 andreconciliation
resilience n.恢复力；弹力；顺应力 legacy n.遗赠，遗产
We will not likely see the likes of Nelson Mandela again.So it falls to us as best we can to forward the example that he set: to make decisions guided not by hate, but by love;to never discount the difference that one person can make;to strive for a future that is worthy of his sacrifice.我们可能难以再见到像纳尔逊·曼德拉这样的伟人。因此，我们的责任是尽我们所能把他树立的榜样传承下去：基于爱——而不是恨——来作决定;永远不要低估一个人所能带来的变化;努力建设一个无愧于他的牺牲的未来。
For now, let us pause and give thanks for the fact that Nelson Mandela lived--a man who took history in his hands, and bent the arc of the moral universe toward justice.May God Bless his memory and keep him in peace.现在，让我们停下来，为纳尔逊·曼德拉曾经活着而表达我们的感激之情——他用双手握住历史，把道德宇宙的长虹折向正义。愿上帝保佑他的记忆，使他安息。strive vi.努力；奋斗；抗争
arc n.弧（度）；弧光（全称electric arc）；弧形物；天穹adj.圆弧的；反三角函数的vt.形成电弧；走弧线
moral n.道德；寓意adj.道德的；精神上的；品性端正
第四篇：奥巴马演讲稿(中英文)
2011-04-06 15:04(分类:默认分类)
奥巴马开学演讲稿 弗吉尼亚州，阿林顿市，2009年9月8日嗨，大家好！你们今天过得怎么样？我现在和弗吉尼亚州阿林顿郡韦克菲尔德高中的学生们在一起，全国各地也有从幼儿园到高三的众多学生们通过电视关注这里，我很高兴你们能共同分享这一时刻。我知道，对你们中的许多人来说，今天是开学的第一天，你们中的有一些刚刚进入幼儿园或升上初高中，对你们来说，这是在新学校的第一天，因此，假如你们感到有些紧张，那也是很正常的。我想也会有许多毕业班的学生们正自信满满地准备最后一年的冲刺。不过，我想无论你有多大、在读哪个年级，许多人都打心底里希望现在还在放暑假，以及今天不用那么早起床。我可以理解这份心情。小时候，我们家在印度尼西亚住过几年，而我妈妈没钱送我去其他美国孩子们上学的地方去读书，因此她决定自己给我上课——时间是每周一到周五的凌晨4点半。显然，我不怎么喜欢那么早就爬起来，很多时候，我就这么在厨房的桌子前睡着了。每当我埋怨的时候，我妈总会用同一副表情看着我说：“小鬼，你以为教你我就很轻松？”所以，我可以理解你们中的许多人对于开学还需要时间来调整和适应，但今天我站在这里，是为了和你们谈一些重要的事情。我要和你们谈一谈你们每个人的教育，以及在新的学年里，你们应当做些什么。我做过许多关于教育的讲话，也常常用到“责任”这个词。我谈到过教师们有责任激励和启迪你们，督促你们学习。我谈到过家长们有责任看管你们认真学习、完成作业，不要成天只会看电视或打游戏机。我也很多次谈到过政府有责任设定高标准严要求、协助老师和校长们的工作，改变在有些学校里学生得不到应有的学习机会的现状。但哪怕这一切都达到最好，哪怕我们有最尽职的教师、最好的家长、和最优秀的学校，假如你们不去履行自己的责任的话，那么这一切努力都会白费。——除非你每天准时去上学、除非你认真地听老师讲课、除非你把父母、长辈和其他大人们说的话放在心上、除非你肯付出成功所必需的努力，否则这一切都会失去意义。而这就是我今天讲话的主题：对于自己的教育，你们中每一个人的责任。首先，我想谈谈你们对于自己有什么责任。你们中的每一个人都会有自己擅长的东西，每一个人都是有用之材，而发现自己的才能是什么，就是你们要对自己担起的责任。教育给你们提供了发现自己才能的机会。或许你能写出优美的文字——甚至有一天能让那些文字出现在书籍和报刊上——但假如不在英语课上经常练习写作，你不会发现自己有这样的天赋；或许你能成为一个发明家、创造家——甚至设计出像今天的iPhone一样流行的产品，或研制出新的药物与疫苗——但假如不在自然科学课程上做上几次实验，你不会知道自己有这样的天赋；或许你能成为一名议员或最高法院法官，但假如你不去加入什么学生会或参加几次辩论赛，你也不会发现自己的才能。而且，我可以向你保证，不管你将来想要做什么，你都需要相应的教育。——你想当名医生、当名教师或当名警官？你想成为护士、成为建筑设计师、律师或军人？无论你选择哪一种职业，良好的教育都必不可少，这世上不存在不把书念完就能拿到好工作的美梦，任何工作，都需要你的汗水、训练与学习。不仅仅对于你们个人的未来有重要意义，你们的教育如何也会对这个国家、乃至世界的未来产生重要影响。今天你们在学校中学习的内容，将会决定我们整个国家在未来迎接重大挑战时的表现。你们需要在数理科学课程上学习的知识和技能，去治疗癌症、艾滋那样的疾病，和解决我们面临的能源问题与环境问题；你们需要在历史社科课程上培养出的观察力与判断力，来减轻和消除无家可归与贫困、犯罪问题和各种歧视，让这个国家变得更加公平和自由；你们需要在各类课程中逐渐累积和发展出来的创新意识和思维，去创业和建立新的公司与企业，来制造就业机会和推动经济的增长。我们需要你们中的每一个人都培养和发展自己的天赋、技能和才智，来解决我们所面对的最困难的问题。假如你不这么做——假如你放弃学习——那么你不仅是放弃了自己，也是放弃了你的国家。当然，我明白，读好书并不总是件容易的事。我知道你们中的许多人在生活中面临着各种各样的问题，很难把精力集中在专心读书之上。我知道你们的感受。我父亲在我两岁时就离开了家庭，是母亲一人将我们拉扯大，有时她付不起帐单；有时我们得不到其他孩子们都有的东西，有时我会想，假如父亲在该多好；有时我会感到孤独无助，与周围的环境格格不入。因此我并不总是能专心学习，我做过许多自己觉得丢脸的事情，也惹出过许多不该惹的麻烦，我的生活岌岌可危，随时可能急转直下。但我很幸运。我在许多事上都得到了重来的机会，我得到了去大学读法学院、实现自己梦想的机会。我的妻子——现在得叫她第一夫人米歇尔·奥巴马了——也有着相似的人生故事，她的父母都没读过大学，也没有什么财产，但他们和她都辛勤工作，好让她有机会去这个国家最优秀的学校读书。你们中有些人可能没有这些有利条件，或许你的生活中没有能为你提供帮助和支持的长辈，或许你的某个家长没有工作、经济拮据，或许你住的社区不那么安全，或许你认识一些会对你产生不良影响的朋友，等等。但归根结底，你的生活状况——你的长相、出身、经济条件、家庭氛围——都不是疏忽学业和态度恶劣的借口，这些不是你去跟老师顶嘴、逃课、或是辍学的借口，这些不是你不好好读书的借口。你的未来，并不取决于你现在的生活有多好或多坏。没有人为你编排好你的命运，在美国，你的命运由你自己书写，你的未来由你自己掌握。而在这片土地上的每个地方，千千万万和你一样的年轻人正是这样在书写着自己的命运。例如德克萨斯州罗马市的贾斯敏·佩雷兹（Jazmin Perez）。刚进学校时，她根本不会说英语，她住的地方几乎没人上过大学，她的父母也没有受过高等教育，但她努力学习，取得了优异的成绩，靠奖学金进入了布朗大学，如今正在攻读公共卫生专业的博士学位。我还想起了加利福尼亚州洛斯拉图斯市的安多尼·舒尔兹（Andoni Schultz），他从三岁起就开始与脑癌病魔做斗争，他熬过了一次次治疗与手术——其中一次影响了他的记忆，因此他得花出比常人多几百个小时的时间来完成学业，但他从不曾落下自己的功课。这个秋天，他要开始在大学读书了。又比如在我的家乡，伊利诺斯州芝加哥市，身为孤儿的香特尔·史蒂夫（Shantell Steve）换过多次收养家庭，从小在治安很差的地区长大，但她努力争取到了在当地保健站工作的机会、发起了一个让青少年远离犯罪团伙的项目，很快，她也将以优异的成绩从中学毕业，去大学深造。贾斯敏、安多尼和香特尔与你们并没有什么不同。和你们一样，他们也在生活中遭遇各种各样的困难与问题，但他们拒绝放弃，他们选择为自己的教育担起责任、给自己定下奋斗的目标。我希望你们中的每一个人，都能做得到这些。因此，在今天，我号召你们每一个人都为自己的教育定下一个目标——并在之后，尽自己的一切努力去实现它。你的目标可以很简单，像是完成作业、认真听讲或每天阅读——或许你打算参加一些课外活动，或在社区做些志愿工作；或许你决定为那些因为长相或出身等等原因而受嘲弄或欺负的孩子做主、维护他们的权益，因为你和我一样，认为每个孩子都应该能有一个安全的学习环境；或许你认为该学着更好的照顾自己，来为将来的学习做准备„„当然，除此之外，我希望你们都多多洗手、感到身体不舒服的时候要多在家休息，免得大家在秋冬感冒高发季节都得流感。不管你决定做什么，我都希望你能坚持到底，希望你能真的下定决心。我知道有些时候，电视上播放的节目会让你产生这样那样的错觉，似乎你不需要付出多大的努力就能腰缠万贯、功成名就——你会认为只要会唱rap、会打篮球或参加个什么真人秀节目就能坐享其成，但现实是，你几乎没有可能走上其中任何一条道路。因为，成功是件难事。你不可能对要读的每门课程都兴趣盎然，你不可能和每名带课教师都相处顺利，你也不可能每次都遇上看起来和现实生活有关的作业。而且，并不是每件事，你都能在头一次尝试时获得成功。但那没有关系。因为在这个世界上，最成功的人们往往也经历过最多的失败。J.K.罗琳的第一本《哈利·波特》被出版商拒绝了十二次才最终出版；迈克尔·乔丹上高中时被学校的篮球队刷了下来，在他的职业生涯里，他输了几百场比赛、投失过几千次射篮，知道他是怎么说的吗？“我一生不停地失败、失败再失败，这就是我现在成功的原因。” 他们的成功，源于他们明白人不能让失败左右自己——而是要从中吸取经验。从失败中，你可以明白下一次自己可以做出怎样的改变；假如你惹了什么麻烦，那并不说明你就是个捣蛋贵，而是在提醒你，在将来要对自己有更严格的要求；假如你考了个低分，那并不说明你就比别人笨，而是在告诉你，自己得在学习上花更多的时间。没有哪一个人一生出来就擅长做什么事情的，只有努力才能培养出技能。任何人都不是在第一次接触一项体育运动时就成为校队的代表，任何人都不是在第一次唱一首歌时就找准每一个音，一切都需要熟能生巧。对于学业也是一样，你或许要反复运算才能解出一道数学题的正确答案，你或许需要读一段文字好几遍才能理解它的意思，你或许得把论文改上好几次才能符合提交的标准。这都是很正常的。不要害怕提问。不要不敢向他人求助。——我每天都在这么做。求助并不是软弱的表现，恰恰相反，它说明你有勇气承认自己的不足、并愿意去学习新的知识。所以，有不懂时，就向大人们求助吧——找个你信得过的对象，例如父母、长辈、老师、教练或辅导员——让他们帮助你向目标前进。你要记住，哪怕你表现不好、哪怕你失去信心、哪怕你觉得身边的人都已经放弃了你——永远不要自己放弃自己。因为当你放弃自己的时候，你也放弃了自己的国家。美国不是一个人们遭遇困难就轻易放弃的国度，在这个国家，人们坚持到底、人们加倍努力，为了他们所热爱的国度，每一个人都尽着自己最大的努力，不会给自己留任何余地。250年前，有一群和你们一样的学生，他们之后奋起努力、用一场革命最终造就了这个国家；75年前，有一群和你们一样的学生，他们之后战胜了大萧条、赢得了二战；就在20年前，和你们一样的学生们，他们后来创立了Google、Twitter和Facebook，改变了我们人与人之间沟通的方式。因此，今天我想要问你们，你们会做出什么样的贡献？你们将解决什么样的难题？你们能发现什么样的事物？
二十、五十或百年之后，假如那时的美国总统也来做一次开学演讲的话，他会怎样描述你们对这个国家所做的一切？你们的家长、你们的老师和我，每一个人都在尽最大的努力，确保你们都能得到应有的教育来回答这些问题。例如我正在努力为你们提供更安全的教室、更多的书籍、更先进的设施与计算机。但你们也要担起自己的责任。因此我要求你们在今年能够认真起来，我要求你们尽心地去做自己着手的每一件事，我要求你们每一个人都有所成就。请不要让我们失望——不要让你的家人、你的国家和你自己失望。你们要成为我们骄傲，我知道，你们一定可以做到。
Thank you!Hello!(Applause.)Thank you.Thank you.Well, hello, Philadelphia!(Applause.)And hello, Masterman.It is wonderful to see all of you.What a terrific introduction by Kelly.Give Kelly a big round of applause.(Applause.)I was saying backstage that when I was in high school, I could not have done that.(Laughter.)I would have muffed it up somehow.So we are so proud of you and everything that you’ve done.And to all the students here, I’m thrilled to be here.谢谢！你们好！（掌声。）谢谢。谢谢。你好，费城！（掌声。）你好，马斯特曼。见到你们真是太好了。Kelly的介绍真是太棒了。让我们对Kelly报以热烈的掌声。在后台的时候我说，我上高中的时候我就做不这么好，我可能会弄的一团糟。所以让我们为你和你做的一切自豪吧。站在这里我很激动。
kelly 在奥巴马总统演讲前，一名叫Kelly的学生做了演讲。backstage n.后台
muff v.笨拙地处理，将事情弄糟 thrilled a.激动的
We’ve got a couple introductions I want to make.First of all, you’ve got the outstanding governor of Pennsylvania, Ed Rendell, in the house.(Applause.)The mayor of Philadelphia, Michael Nutter, is here.(Applause.)Congressman Chaka Fattah is here.(Applause.)Congresswoman Allyson Schwartz is here.(Applause.)Your own principal, Marge Neff, is here.(Applause.)The school superintendent, Arlene Ackerman, is here and doing a great job.(Applause.)And the Secretary of Education, Arne Duncan, is here.(Applause.)
我想介绍几个人。首先，来到这儿的有，杰出的宾夕法尼亚州州长，Ed Rendell。（掌声。）费城市长，Michael Nutter。国会议员Fattah和Allyson Schwartz（掌声）。你们的校长Marge Neff（掌声）。学校管理人Arlene Ackerman是这个学校的，并且为学校做了很大的贡献。（掌声）。还有教育部秘书长Arne Duncan。（掌声）
outstanding a.杰出的 Congressman n.国会议员 principal n.校长
superintendent n.院长
And I am here.(Applause.)And I am thrilled to be here.I am just so excited.I’ve heard such great things about what all of you are doing, both the students and the teachers and the staff here.还有我。（掌声），我感到非常的激动。我耳闻了你们做的那些伟大的事，这里面有在校的学生，老师和工作人员。
Today is about welcoming all of you, and all of America’s students, back to school, even though I know you’ve been in school for a little bit now.And I can’t think of a better place to do it than at Masterman.(Applause.)Because you are one of the best schools in Philadelphia.You are a leader in helping students succeed in the classroom.Just last week, you were recognized by a National Blue Ribbon--as a National Blue Ribbon School because of your record of achievement.And that is a testament to everybody here –-to the students, to the parents, to the teachers, to the school leaders.It’s an example of excellence that I hope communities across America can embrace.今天欢迎你们，欢迎每一个美国学生回校上课，当然你们在学校已经呆了一段时间了。我想不出除了在Masterman外，还有哪个地方更适合做这件事。（掌声）因为你们是费城最好的学校之一。你们在教育方面是领头军。就在上周，由于你们的卓越贡献，被授为国家蓝丝带勋章。这是对每个人的见证，对学生，家长，老师还有学校领导人。我希望全美的社会团体都能欣然接受这个杰出代表的例子。
embrace vt.拥抱；接受
Over the past few weeks, Michelle and I have been getting Sasha and Malia ready for school.And they’re excited about it.I’ll bet they had the same feelings that you do--you’re a little sad to see the summer go, but you’re also excited about the possibilities of a new year.The possibilities of building new friendships and strengthening old ones, of joining a school club, or trying out for a team.The possibilities of growing into a better student and a better person and making not just your family proud but making yourself proud.几周前，我和Michelle为Sasha和Malia上学的事做准备。她们两个对这非常的期待。我敢打赌她们和你们一样，有着相同的感觉。你们为夏天的逝去而神伤，但是你们更应该期待新的一年。如你们可以结交新的朋友，加深同老朋友的感情，加入学校俱乐部，参加各种团队的选拔赛。成长为一个更优秀的学生和个人，不仅仅让你的家人自豪，同样让你们自己也很有成就感。
build friendships 结交新朋友
But I know some of you may also be a little nervous about starting a new school year.Maybe you’re making the jump from elementary to middle school, or from middle school to high school, and you’re worried about what that’s going to be like.Maybe you’re starting a new school.You’re not sure how you’ll like it, trying to figure out how you’re going to fit in.Or maybe you’re a senior, and you’re anxious about the whole college process;about where to apply and whether you can afford to go to college.我知道，你们中有些人在新学年会有些紧张。或许你刚从小学升到初中，从初中升到高中，会担心，新的学年将会是什么样的呢。也许你进入一所新的学校，不知道是否会喜欢这个学校，想着怎么来融入这个学校。或许你到了高三年级，对整个的大学入学程序感到不安，比如申请那里的学校，能不能支付上大学的费用等等。
elementary school n.小学 figure out 想明白，弄清楚 fit in 融入，适应 afford to do 承担得起
And beyond all those concerns, I know a lot of you are also feeling the strain of some difficult times.You know what’s going on in the news and you also know what’s going on in some of your own families.You’ve read about the war in Afghanistan.You hear about the recession that we’ve been through.And sometimes maybe you’re seeing the worries in your parents’ faces or sense it in their voice.除此之外，我知道你们还有来自困难时期的压力。你们知道新闻内容，知道你们一些家庭中发发生的事情。你们读过有关阿富汗战争的信息，听说过我们经历过的经济不景气。有时你们还看到了双亲脸上挂着的忧虑，或从他们的声音中感受到了这些。
strain n.压力
So a lot of you as a consequence, because we’re going through a tough time a country, are having to act a lot older than you are.You got to be strong for your family while your brother or sister is serving overseas, or you’ve got to look after younger siblings while your mom is working that second shift.Or maybe some of you who are little bit older, you’re taking on a part-time job while your dad’s out of work.所以，因为我们国家面临困难时期，你们许多人的行为看上去比实际年龄要大。姐姐哥哥在海外工作，你们会表现得坚强，或许妈妈去值第二班，你们就要照顾年幼的弟弟妹妹。或许你们有些人年长一点的，父亲失了业，你们还要做兼职。
as a consequence 结果，所以
tough time 困难时期【tough a.艰难的】 sibling n.兄弟姐妹，同胞 shift n.轮班
And that’s a lot to handle.It’s more than you should have to handle.And it may make you wonder at times what your own future will look like, whether you’re going to be able to succeed in school, whether you should maybe set your sights a little lower, scale back your dreams.有太多事情要做了，很多是你们不应该做的。这让你们迷茫，不知道自己的未来会是什么样，在学校能不能取得好成绩，是不是应该把目光降低些，把理想放低些。
handle v.处理，应对 scale back 缩减
But I came to Masterman to tell all of you what I think you’re hearing from your principal and your superintendent, and from your parents and your teachers: Nobody gets to write your destiny but you.Your future is in your hands.Your life is what you make of it.And nothing--absolutely nothing--is beyond your reach, so long as you’re willing to dream big, so long as you’re willing to work hard.So long as you’re willing to stay focused on your education, there is not a single thing that any of you cannot accomplish, not a single thing.I believe that.但是，我来到马斯特曼，告诉你们一句话。我想这句话你们的校长、院长、父母以及老师都曾告诉过你们，那就是，没有人，只有你才能书写你自己的命运。未来在你自己手中，生活由自己缔造。只要志向远大，并努力为之奋斗，没有什么是不能得到的。只要你专注于学业，没有什么事不能实现的。我确信。
destiny n.命运 accomplish v.完成
And that last part is absolutely essential, that part about really working hard in school, because an education has never been more important than it is today.I’m sure there are going to be times in the months ahead when you’re staying up late doing your homework or cramming for a test, or you’re dragging yourself out of bed on a rainy morning and you’re thinking, oh, boy, I wish maybe it was a snow day.(Laughter.)
最后这一点，在学校努力奋斗是必要的。因为教育从未像现在这样重要。我确信，几个月后会有一段时间，你们会完善熬夜写作业，为考试临时抱佛脚，或者在一个雨天的早晨把自己从被窝里拖出来，想，哦天，怎么不是下雪天？！（笑）
absolutely ad.绝对地 cram v.临时抱佛脚；吃得过饱
But let me tell you, what you’re doing is worth it.There is nothing more important than what you’re doing right now.Nothing is going to have as great an impact on your success in life as your education, how you’re doing in school.但是让我告诉你，你所做的一切都是值得的。你们现在要做的事情无比重要。没有什么比你的受教育程度以及你在学校的所做之事更能决定你的成功。
More and more, the kinds of opportunities that are open to you are going to be determined by how far you go in school.The farther you go in school, the farther you’re going to go in life.And at a time when other countries are competing with us like never before, when students around the world in Beijing, China, or Bangalore, India, are working harder than ever, and doing better than ever, your success in school is not just going to determine your success, it’s going to determine America’s success in the 21st century.能否能抓住机遇，越来越取决于你们在学校的努力。你们在学校的表现越好，生活中就能走得越远。当今，其他国家正与我们竞争，而且比以往任何时候都激烈。在中国北京或者印度邦加罗尔的学生比以前更加努力，而且比以前表现更好。你们在学校的成功并不只决定了自己一人的成功，还决定了美国在21世界是否能够成功。
So you’ve got an obligation to yourselves, and America has an obligation to you, to make sure you’re getting the best education possible.And making sure you get that kind of education is going to take all of us working hard and all of us working hand in hand.所以，你们要承担起这样的责任和义务。同时国家也向你们承担责任和义务，那就是为你们提供最好的教育，为此我们要努力，共同奋斗。
obligation n.责任，义务
It takes all of us in government--from the governor to the mayor to the superintendent to the President--all of us doing our part to prepare our students, all of them, for success in the classroom and in college and in a career.It’s going to take an outstanding principal, like Principal Neff, and outstanding teachers like the ones you have here at Masterman--teachers who are going above and beyond the call of duty for their students.And it’s going to take parents who are committed to your education.所有政府工作人员，从州长到市长，到院长，到总统，所有人都要履行职责为我们的学生做好准备，帮助他们在教室、在大学、在事业上取得成功。这就需要我们有一个杰出的校长，像校长Neff，和优秀的老师，正如你们的马斯特曼的老师们。老师们要履行好对学生所应担负起的责任。我也希望家长负起责任。
佳句欣赏
Nobody gets to write your destiny but you.Your future is in your hands.Your life is what you make of it.没有人，只有你才能书写你自己的命运。未来在你自己手中，生活由自己缔造。
背景知识
这是奥巴马第二次发表开学演讲。奥巴马2009年的演讲招来了许多批评和抵制。一些反对者指责称，奥巴马试图通过演讲向学生灌输政治理念。部分媒体还批评奥巴马试图建立个人崇拜。在美国各地，也有许多家长向当地教育官员表示抗议，一些家长甚至威胁在奥巴马演讲时把孩子离教室。有了去年的“教训”，今年的总统开学演讲，白宫意强调这是一次“非政治活动”，而奥巴马本人也在演讲中回避政治话题。-转自[英
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：http:///Listening_Speaking/Oral_English/214752572.html
第五篇：奥巴马中英文演讲稿
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 and his gracious welcome.I'd also like to thank our outstanding Ambassador, 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.下午好。能够有机会在上海跟你们大家交谈，我深感荣幸。我要感谢复旦大学的杨校长，感谢他的款待和热情的欢迎。我还要感谢我们出色的大使Jon Huntsman，他代表了我们两国之间的深远联系和相互尊重。我不知道他刚才说什么，但是希望他说的是好的。
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.我今天准备先做一个开场白，但我真正希望做的是回答问题，不但回答在座的学生提出的问题，同时也回答从网上提出的一些问题，这些问题由在座的一些学生和洪博培大使代为提出。很抱歉，我的中文不如你们的英文，但我期待着这个和你们对话的机会。
This is my first time traveling to China, and I'm excited to see this majestic country.Here, in Shanghai, we see the growth that has caught the attention of the world--the soaring skyscrapers, the bustling streets and entrepreneurial 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.这是我首次访问中国，看到你们壮丽的国家，我感到很兴奋。在上海，我们看到了全球瞩目的发展——高耸的大厦、繁忙的街道、创业的动态。这些都是中国步入 21世纪的迹象，让我感到赞叹。同时，我也期盼看到向我们展现中国悠久历史的古迹。明天和后天我会在北京，希望有机会看到壮观的故宫和奇迹般的长城。的确，这是一个既有丰富的历史，又对未来的希望充满信心的国家。
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.我们两国的关系也是如此。毫无疑问，上海在美中关系史上是一个具有重大意义的城市。正是在这里，37年前发布的《上海公报》（Shanghai Communique）开启了我们两国政府和两国人民接触交往的新篇章。然而，美国与这个城市以及这个国家的纽带可以追溯到更久远的过去，直至美国独立初期。
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.1784年，我们的建国之父乔治·华盛顿主持了“中国女皇号”（Empress of China）的下水仪式。这条船前往中国海岸，寻求与清朝通商。华盛顿希望看到这条悬挂美国国旗的船前往世界各地，与像中国这样的国家缔结新的纽带。这是通常的美国人的愿望——希望达到新的地平线，建立新的、互利的伙伴关系。
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.在此后的两个世纪中，历史洪流使我们两国关系向许多不同的方向发展，但即使在动荡的岁月中，两国人民也抓住机会发展了深入的、甚至极不平凡的关系。例如，美国人民永远不会忘记，二战期间，美国飞行员在中国上空被击落后，中国公民冒着失去一切的危险护理他们。参加过二战的中国老兵仍然热情欢迎故地重游的美国老兵，他们曾经在那里作战，帮助中国从占领下获得解放。
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.”近40年前，简单的乒乓球比赛带来了两国关系的解冻，使我们两国建立起另一种联系。这种接触令人意外，但却恰恰促成了其成功，因为尽管我们之间存在许多分歧，但是我们共同的人性和共同的好奇心得以从中显现。正如一位美国乒乓球队员在回忆对中国的访问时所说：“那里的人民和我们一样„„这个国家和美国有许多相似之处，也有很大区别。” 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.无须赘言，这个小小的契机带来了《上海公报》的问世，并最终促使美中两国在1979年建立正式外交关系。请看在此后的30年，我们取得了多么长足的进展。
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.1979年，美中贸易额约为50亿美元，今天，贸易额已经超过4000亿美元。贸易在许多方面影响着两国人民的生活，美国电脑中的许多元件以及我们身穿的服装都是从中国进口的，我们向中国出口你们的工业需要的机器。这种贸易可以在太平洋两岸创造更多的就业机会，让我们的人民过上质量更高的生活。随着需求趋于平衡，繁荣的范围将进一步扩大。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.1979年，美中之间的政治合作主要立足于双方共同面对的竞争对手苏联。如今我们享有积极的、建设性的、全面的关系，为我们在当今时代的关键性全球问题上建立伙伴关系打开了大门，这些问题包括：经济复苏和清洁能源开发、制止核武器扩散和气候变化的影响、在亚洲及全球各地促进和平与安全。所有这些问题都是我明天与胡主席会谈的内容。
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.1979年，我们两国人民的联系十分有限。今天，我们看到当年乒乓球队员的好奇心已经化为许多领域的纽带，中国留学生在美国的人数名列第二，而在美国学生中，学中文的人数增加了50%。我们两国有近200个友好城市，把我们的社区连接在一起。美中科学家合作进行新的研究与发现。而姚明是我们两国人民都热爱篮球的仅仅一个标志而已——令我遗憾的是，此行中我不能观看上海大鲨鱼队的比赛。
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.我们两国之间的关系相伴着一个积极变化的时期，这不是偶然的。中国实现了亿万人民脱贫，这一成就史无前例，同时，中国在全球问题中也在发挥更大的作用。美国在促使冷战顺利结束的同时，经济也取得了增长，人民的生活水平提高。
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.中国有句名言：“温故而知新。”当然，过去30年中我们也曾遇到挫折和挑战，我们的关系不是没有分歧和困难。但是，“我们必然是对手”的概念并非是注定不变的——回顾过去不会是这样。由于我们的合作，美中两国都更加繁荣、更加安全。我们已经看到我们本着共同的利益和相互的尊重去努力所能取得的成果。
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.可是，这种接触的成功取决于理解，取决于继续进行开诚布公的对话，相互了解，相互学习。正如前面提到的那位美国乒乓球队员所说——作为人，我们有着许多共同之处，但是我们两国在某些方面存在着差别。
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.我认为每个国家都必须规划自己的前进方向。中国是一个文明古国，文化深远。而美国相对而言是一个年轻的国家，它的文化由来自许多不同国家的移民以及指导我国民主制度的建国纲领所形成。
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.这些纲领中提出了对人类事务的简单明了的瞩望，并包含了一些核心原则——不论男女人人生而平等，都享有某些基本权利；政府应当反映民意，并对人民的愿望作出回应；商贸应该是开放的，信息应该自由流通；司法保障应该来自法治而不是人治。
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.当然，我国的历史也并非没有困难的篇章。在很多方面，在很长的时间里，我们要通过斗争去实现这些原则对全体人民的承诺，缔造一个更趋完善的联邦。我们曾打过一场很痛苦的南北战争，将我国的一部分人口从奴役下解放出来。妇女获得投票权、劳工赢得组织权、来自世界各地的移民得到完全的接纳——这些都是经过了一段时间才实现的。非洲裔美国人即使在获得自由后依然生活在被隔离和不平等的条件下，他们经过不懈努力才最终赢得全面、平等的权利。
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.所有这些都不曾轻而易举。但是，由于我们对这些核心原则的坚定信念，我们取得了进步，这些原则指引我们冲过了最黑暗的风暴。这就是为什么林肯能在南北战争中挺身而出并宣布，这是一场考验一个孕育于自由之中、“忠实于人人生而平等这一原则”的国家能否永存的斗争。这也就是为什么马丁·路德·金博士能够站立在林肯纪念堂的台阶上，要求我们的国家实践自身信仰的真正含义。这也就是为什么来自从中国到肯尼亚的各国移民能够在我国的土地上安家；为什么所有努力寻求机会的人都能获得机会；为什么像我这种在不到50年前在美国的某些地方连投票都遇到困难的人，现在能够出任这个国家的总统。
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_r_r_r 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.这就是为什么美国一直在全世界为这些核心原则而大声疾呼。我们不寻求把任何政治体制强加给任何别的国家，但是我们也不认为我们主张的这些原则是我们国家所独有的。表达自由和宗教信仰自由——获得信息和政治参与的自由——我们认为这些自由都是普世的权利，所有人都应当享有，包括少数民族和宗教少数派，不管是在美国、中国还是在任何其他国家。正是对普世权利的尊重指导着美国向其他国家开放，尊重各种不同的文化，致力于遵守国际法，并对未来抱有信念。
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.这些都是你们应当了解的美国的情况。我也知道中国有很多有待我们了解的情况。环顾一下这座伟大的城市——环顾一下这个大厅——我确信我们两个国家有一个很重要的共同点，那就是我们对未来的信念。美国和中国都不想满足于已取得的成就，止步不前。虽然中国是一个古老的国家，但你们显然也对未来满怀信心、雄心和使年轻一代能比这一代人更有作为的决心。
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.我们不但钦佩中国日益增长的经济，还赞赏你们在科学研究方面极不平凡的努力——从你们建设的基础设施到你们使用的技术，均体现出这种努力。中国现在是世界上最大的互联网使用国——这也是我们今天很高兴能把互联网作为此次活动的一部分的原因。这个国家目前拥有世界上最大的移动电话网络，它正在投资发展既能维持可持续增长，又能应对气候变化的新型能源——我期待着明天在这个至关重要的领域中深化两国的合作关系。然而，最重要的是，我在你们身上看到了中国的未来 ——年轻一代的聪明才智、献身精神和梦想将为塑造21世纪发挥巨大作用。
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.我已说过多次，我相信我们现在的世界是紧密相连的。我们所做的工作，我们所建设的繁荣，我们所保护的环境，以及我们所寻求的安全——所有这一切都是共有的。鉴于这种相互联系，在21世纪，权力不应再成为一场零和游戏；一国的成功发展不应以他国为代价。这也就是为什么美国坚决表示我们不谋求遏制中国的崛起。恰恰相反，我们欢迎中国成为国际社会中一个强大、繁荣、成功的成员——一个从你们这样的每个中国人的权利、实力和创造力中获得力量的中国。
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.回到前面提到的那句古语——回顾过去。我们知道，大国之间选择合作而非对抗会带来更大的惠益。这是人类不断汲取的一个教训，我们两国的关系史中也不乏其例。我深信，合作必须不止于政府间的合作。合作必须植根于我们的人民——植根于我们共同进行的研究，我们的商贸活动，我们所学到的知识，乃至我们的体育运动。这些桥梁必须由你们这样的年轻人和美国的年轻人共同构筑。
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 absolutelyconfident 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.因此，我高兴地宣布，美国准备将在中国留学的美国学生人数大幅度增加到10万人。这种交流是对在我们两国人民之间建立联系的明确承诺，毫无疑问，你们将帮助决定21世纪的命运。我完全相信，对美·来说，再好的使者莫过于我们的年轻人。因为他们和你们一样，才华横溢，充满活力，对有待书写的历史篇章充满乐观。
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.那么，就让这个举措成为我们稳步寻求合作的下一个步骤，这种合作有利于我们两国乃至整个世界。如果能从今天的对话中得到一点启示那我希望从中得到的是不断地推进。
So thank you very much.And I look forward now to taking some questions from all of you.Thank you very much.非常感谢诸位。现在我希望回答你们大家提出的一些问题。非常感谢。
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