FDR Fireside Chat - 1944-01-11

In this speech, the speaker addresses concerns that they have made commitments that may bind the nation to secret treaties or playing the role of a world Santa Claus. They acknowledge the importance of addressing the needs of the hungry and unemployed, as these conditions can lead to dictatorships. They propose a second Bill of Rights that includes the right to a job, adequate food and clothing, fair treatment for farmers and businesses, a decent home, medical care, protection from economic fears, and a good education. They emphasize that these rights are necessary for security and that after the war, efforts must be made to achieve human happiness and well-being. Back here I want to address a word or two to some suspicious souls who are fearful that Mr. Howell or I have made commitments for the future which might pledge this nation to secret treaties or to enacting the role of a world Santa Claus. Of course we made commitments. People who are hungry, people who are out of a job are the stuff of which dictatorships are made. In our day these economic truths have become accepted as self-evident. We have accepted, so to speak, a second Bill of Rights under which a new basis of security and prosperity can be established for all, regardless of station or race or creed. Among these are the right to a useful and remunerated job in the industry, or shops, or farms, or mines of the nation. The right to earn enough to provide adequate food and clothing and recreation. The right of farmers to raise and sell their products at a return which will give them and their families a decent living. The right of every businessman, large and small, to trade in an atmosphere of freedom from unfair competition and domination. The right of every family to a decent home. The right to adequate medical care and the opportunity to achieve and enjoy good health. The right to adequate protection from the economic fears of old age and sickness and accident and unemployment. And finally, the right to a good education. All of these rights spell security. And after this war is won, we must be prepared to move forward in the implementation of these rights to new goals of human happiness and well-being.