Reagan Speaks in Berlin

Worksheet Description

This worksheet focuses on a historic speech delivered by U.S. President Ronald Reagan in Berlin on June 12, 1987. The questions guide students through understanding the motives behind American presidents visiting Berlin, Reagan’s main arguments in his address, and specific references he made about the Soviets. Furthermore, it provides an avenue for students to critically reflect on the speech, encouraging them to identify the most striking or memorable aspects from their perspective. The illustration of Reagan and the title “Reagan Speaks in Berlin” contextualizes the content and sets the tone for students to delve into this important Cold War event.

To effectively address this worksheet, students should first familiarize themselves with the speech, either by reading its transcript or listening to a recording. As they engage with the content, they should actively note the key points, especially focusing on Reagan’s reasons for the visit, his criticisms, and his direct messages to the Soviet Union. After a comprehensive review, students should then answer the questions, ensuring they provide accurate and detailed responses based on the speech’s content. For the last question, they should employ critical thinking and personal reflection to determine what stood out to them the most.

The worksheet aims to immerse students in the historical significance of Reagan’s Berlin speech and its relevance during the Cold War era. It encourages them to discern the rhetorical and political elements in presidential addresses, helping them recognize the power of speeches in shaping public opinion and international relations. By asking about Reagan’s direct message to the Soviets, the worksheet emphasizes the confrontational nature of the Cold War and the symbolic importance of the Berlin Wall. Lastly, by prompting students for their personal takeaways, it promotes a deeper, more reflective engagement with history, allowing students to connect with the past in a meaningful way.