Checkers

The speech can be divided into four overarching sections in which Nixon presents his version of the truth, reveals his finances, turns the tables on his opponents, and fights for his candidacy. How does the structure and execution of the speech support its overall message?

Contemporary responses to the speech suggest that Nixon largely succeeded in portraying himself as a man of simplicity and modest means. What rhetorical or literary devices aid in creating a tone of humility and honesty throughout the speech?

Nixon refers to a few members of the Washington administration either to boost his credibility or to shed light on issues not yet discussed. How might Nixon’s inclusion of other political figures contribute to the major themes of the speech?

Nixon concludes the section on his personal history and finances by including how he was gifted a dog. How does this anecdote, for which the speech is named, convey Nixon’s personal values?

How does Nixon’s personal history and financial transparency combat the smears and accusations against him?

The press circulated news on the accusations toward Nixon while he was traveling and unable to make a proper response. How might the medium of television have impacted how Nixon’s speech was received?

Can the political strategies and rhetorical techniques in this speech be read as predictive of Nixon’s later political career or of future developments in US politics more broadly?

Eisenhower had campaigned as an anti-corruption candidate, and the accusations against Nixon placed that image in jeopardy, leading Eisenhower to strongly consider jettisoning Nixon from his ticket. Which aspects of the speech seem aimed at Eisenhower as a secondary audience? How does Nixon aim to derive political strength from this moment of vulnerability?