Summary

Jimmy Carter begins his “Crisis of Confidence” speech by greeting the audience and by recalling his promises to the American nation. He points out that there is an energy problem and concludes that he needs the help of the population to solve it.

Carter shares a few critical comments he received from regular Americans. These include advice for the President, comments on the current condition of America, or on energy consumption and how the energy crisis has affected the American population.

Carter then explains that the real American crisis is that of confidence. He says that Americans lack confidence in the future, which holds the nation back. He points out that people are more focused on material goods but these cannot replace a life full of confidence and purpose. He also says that because of their troubled past, Americans have learned that their country is flawed and he also recalls the first oil crisis in 1973. He points out the government’s inability to help the nation.

Carter concludes that the only solution is for regular citizens and the people in power to work together. Carter also says that the American population has a past which shows that they were able to survive difficult periods of time such as the Great Depressio...