Persuasive writing has long since played into our everyday lives, influencing our decisions on tasks as minor as selecting a shampoo product and as significant as voting for the president. If we look closely, examples of persuasive writing exist everywhere.
Enlist the help of an Engram's Paraphraser to enhance the clarity and eloquence of your writing, as persuasive writing only works with high-quality writing.
And rightfully so, people view persuasive writing as an important factor in their choices. In a study by Manifest, it was found out that "50% of a group of people said a company's slogan is the brand element that helps them understand the company's purpose the most, [as opposed to] the company's name (13%)."
Advertisements, opinion columns, political speeches, and debates, etc.
So, how can we write persuasively and influence decisions? Let's start with the basics. For one to become a good writer, one should read examples of good writing. Hence, if one wants to be a persuasive writer, one should read more examples of persuasive essays and speeches.
In this blog post, we provide famous examples of persuasive writing, analyze each one, and offer a variety of resources that can help improve your persuasive writing skills or that can be given to students in a persuasive writing class.
Table of content
- What is persuasive writing?
- What are the ten most famous examples of persuasive writing?
- Persuasive speech examples
- Persuasive essay examples
- Persuasive writing techniques
- How to start a persuasive essay
- Worksheets
- Grading rubrics
- Conclusion
What is persuasive writing?
Persuasive writing is a form of writing in which the writer aims to convince the audience to take a certain viewpoint. Persuasive writing employs logical reasoning (logos), evidence (ethos), emotional appeal (pathos), and other specific types of persuasion techniques to influence the audience.
We will divulge a later section on the different techniques of persuasive writing.
What are the ten most famous examples of persuasive writing?
The following are the ten most famous examples of persuasive writing throughout history. We show excerpts from these persuasive writing examples and analyze the persuasive writing techniques in each specific excerpt.
Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” (Speech)"I have a dream that one day this nation will rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed: 'We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal.' I have a dream that one day on the red hills of Georgia, the sons of former slaves and the sons of former slave owners will be able to sit down together at the table of brotherhood.” - Martin Luther King Jr.
It is no surprise that the first persuasive writing example is the “I Have a Dream” speech by Martin Luther King Jr.
In this particular excerpt, Martin Luther King incorporates pathos and strong imagery to persuade the audience to rise against the wrongs of racial discrimination.
The imagery of “slavery,” “brotherhood,” and “hills” evoke strong visuals of hardship, but also a future in which these unjustified sufferings will soon be replaced with higher ideals of equality and unity.
Thomas Paine’s “Common Sense” (Pamphlet)"Society in every state is a blessing, but Government, even in its best state, is but a necessary evil; in its worst state an intolerable one: for when we suffer, or are exposed to the same miseries BY A GOVERNMENT, which we might expect in a country WITHOUT GOVERNMENT, our calamity is heightened by reflecting that we furnish the means by which we suffer.” - Thomas Pain
The second persuasive writing example is Thomas Paine's pamphlet "Common Sense," which was published in 1776 during the American Revolution.
In this example, Paine uses logos and emotive language to demonstrate that America would be better off without British rule. He uses rational reasoning by saying that the country is no different with a government than without one. When people realize this, they will be overwhelmed with anguish, as they know that they are paying for their suffering.
He uses language such as "calamity" and "evil" to emphasize the uselessness of British rule on the American colonies. This extreme language heightens the feelings of mistrust towards the British government among the American colonists.
Abraham Lincoln’s “Gettysburg Address” (Speech)"Four score and seven years ago our fathers brought forth on this continent, a new nation, conceived in Liberty, and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal. Now we are engaged in a great civil war, testing whether that nation, or any nation so conceived and so dedicated, can long endure. We are met on a great battle-field of that war. We have come to dedicate a portion of that field, as a final resting place for those who here gave their lives that that nation might live. It is altogether fitting and proper that we should do this.” - Abraham Lincoln
Abraham Lincoln’s “Gettysburg Address” speech is the third persuasive writing example.
The speech was delivered during the American Civil War to appeal to the audience's patriotism by honoring the fallen Union soldiers in the Battle of Gettysburg and reaffirming the American ideals of national unity and freedom.
This particular excerpt uses logos with a rhetorical question: "Whether that nation, or any nation so conceived and so dedicated, can long endure." This question challenges the audience to think of the war's purpose, the importance of the nation's ideals, and a nation's endurance.
Rachel Carson’s “Silent Spring” (Essay)"Along the shores of the sea, there were many blossoms: the leaves of the bayberry shone with a deep glossy green, and the plumes of the goldenrod were bright against the blue water, but the bees that had once hummed among the blossoms were gone. Their hives, hidden under the eaves of deserted buildings or standing in fields grown up in brambles, were silent. The poison had passed on, but the bees had not returned. As for the few survivors, where could they go in search of food? Into what empty fields could they descend, since the flowering grasses no longer grew?" - Rachel Carson
The fourth persuasive writing example is the “Silent Spring” speech by Rachel Carson.
Carson wrote this book to urge for a reevaluation of pesticide use and for governments and people to take proactive and responsible actions to protect the environment. Rachel Carson uses vivid imagery in this speech. She depicts idyllic images of nature to emphasize that nature is fragile, beautiful, and thus worth safeguarding. She wants people to feel a sense of responsibility to not poison but to protect nature’s delicate splendor for future generations.
Winston Churchill’s “We Shall Fight on the Beaches” (Speech)“Even though large tracts of Europe and many old and famous States have fallen or may fall into the grip of the Gestapo and all the odious apparatus of Nazi rule, we shall not flag or fail. We shall go on to the end. We shall fight in France, we shall fight on the seas and oceans, we shall fight with growing confidence and growing strength in the air, we shall defend our island, whatever the cost may be. We shall fight on the beaches, landing grounds, in fields and in the streets, we shall fight in the hills; we shall never surrender.” - Winston Churchill
Winston Churchill’s “We Shall Fight on the Beaches” speech is our fifth persuasive writing example. It was delivered in 1940 during World War 2 to rally the British people to resist Nazi aggression.
Churchill uses anaphora and the pronoun "we" to urge for a unified call to action. Anaphora is a rhetorical device that involves the repetition of a word or phrase at the beginning of a sentence. He repeatedly says "We shall fight," prompting people into action and to "fight" for what is right.
Jonathan Edwards's "Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God" (Speech)"The God that holds you over the pit of hell, much as one holds a spider, or some loathsome insect over the fire, abhors you, and is dreadfully provoked; his wrath towards you burns like fire; he looks upon you as worthy of nothing else, but to be cast into the fire; he is of purer eyes than to bear to have you in his sight; you are ten thousand times more abominable in his eyes, than the most hateful venomous serpent is in ours." - Jonathan Edwards
Our sixth persuasive writing example is Jonathan Edwards's "Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God."
Jonathan uses images of a "spider," a "loathsome insect," and a "pit of hell" to cast the sinners and hell in a repulsive light. He is trying to persuade the audience to always act dutifully towards God, as God will be the one to grant salvation and show kindness.
Patrick Henry's “Give Me Liberty or Give Me Death!” (Speech)"Is life so dear, or peace so sweet, as to be purchased at the price of chains and slavery? Forbid it, Almighty God! I know not what course others may take; but as for me, give me liberty, or give me death!"- Patrick Henry
The seventh persuasive writing example is “Give Me Liberty or Give Me Death!” by Patrick Henry.
This speech starts with a rhetorical question: "Is life so dear, or peace so sweet, as to be purchased at the price of chains and slavery?" This rhetorical question directly engages the audience, making them ponder whether life is truly sweet if slavery is the price to pay for it. It appeals to our rationality; hence, it employs a technique known as logos.
He also appeals to authority by incorporating "God" into his cry for what is right. By adding a religious figure such as God, he is validating his claims in a moral light.
Abraham Lincoln’s “Emancipation Proclamation” (Executive Order)"That on the first day of January, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and sixty-three, all persons held as slaves within any State or designated part of a State, the people whereof shall then be in rebellion against the United States, shall be then, thenceforward, and forever free..."- Abraham Lincoln
Abraham Lincoln's "Emancipation Proclamation" is an executive order rather than a piece of persuasive writing, but the order uses a lot of persuasive writing techniques to promote the abolition of slavery.
Lincoln used logos to legally justify his decision as the Commander-in-Chief of the United States to abolish slavery. He also purposefully states the number "one thousand eight hundred and sixty-three" to make his writing appear precise. This precision provides more impact as the writing seems clear and direct.
"We hold these truths to be self-evident: that all men and women are created equal; that they are endowed by their Creator with certain inalienable rights; that among these are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness; that to secure these rights governments are instituted, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed." - Elizabeth Cady Stanton
"Declaration of Sentiments" by Elizabeth Cady Stanton is our ninth persuasive writing example.This speech persuades the audience to support the virtues of the women's rights movement.
In this particular excerpt, Stanton shows her authority by quoting from the Declaration of Independence. She uses the quote "all men and women are created equal" to emphasize that women are also deserving of rights because they are equal to men. This logical progression substantiates her claim both logically and legally.
Franklin D. Roosevelt’s “Day of Infamy” (Speech)“Yesterday, December 7th, 1941—a date which will live in infamy—the United States of America was suddenly and deliberately attacked by naval and air forces of the Empire of Japan. The United States was at peace with that nation, and, at the solicitation of Japan, was still in conversation with its government and its emperor looking toward the maintenance of peace in the Pacific.” - Franklin D. Roosevelt
“Day of Infamy” by Franklin D. Roosevelt is the last example of persuasive writing. In this speech, Roosevelt wanted to rile up the public to gain approval of his political response to the Pearl Harbor attack.
Roosevelt uses emotive language, such as "suddenly" and "deliberately attacked," to contrast the peaceful nature of the United States. This contrast highlights the inhumanity of Japan's attack on Pearl Harbor and the United States' innocence; the United States had been blindsided by Japan.
“A Diamond is Forever” by De Beers (Advertisement)"
“A Diamond is Forever” is a slogan created by Frances Gerety, a copywriter. The slogan was used by the De Beers company. It was used to sell diamonds during the 1930s, a period also known as the Great Depression. The slogan primarily uses emotional associations with permanence and the implied exclusivity of this concept to persuade audiences to buy diamonds and also to justify the high price of diamonds.
More persuasive writing examples
Here are ten other examples of persuasive writing. Now it's your turn. Use our infographics to analyze why these techniques have been noted in history as successful examples of persuasive writing.
Persuasive speech examples
John F. Kennedy’s “Ich bin ein Berliner""There are many people in the world who really don't understand, or say they don't, what is the great issue between the free world and the Communist world. Let them come to Berlin. There are some who say that Communism is the wave of the future. Let them come to Berlin. And there are some who say, in Europe and elsewhere, we can work with the Communists. Let them come to Berlin. And there are even a few who say that it is true that Communism is an evil system, but it permits us to make economic progress. Lass' sie nach Berlin kommen. Let them come to Berlin." - John F. KennedyRonald Regan’s “Tear Down this Wall”
"We welcome change and openness; for we believe that freedom and security go together, that the advance of human liberty can only strengthen the cause of world peace. There is one sign the Soviets can make that would be unmistakable, that would advance dramatically the cause of freedom and peace. General Secretary Gorbachev, if you seek peace, if you seek prosperity for the Soviet Union and Eastern Europe, if you seek liberalization, come here to this gate. Mr. Gorbachev, open this gate. Mr. Gorbachev, tear down this wall!" - Ronald ReaganNelson Mandela’s “I Am Prepared to Die”
"I have done whatever I did, both as an individual and as a leader of my people, because of my experience in South Africa and my own proudly felt African background, and not because of what any outsider might have said. In my youth in the Transkei, I listened to the elders of my tribe telling stories of the old days. Amongst the tales they related to me were those of wars fought by our ancestors in defence of the fatherland. The names of Dingane and Bambatha, Hintsa and Makana, Squngthi and Dalasile, Moshoeshoe and Sekhukhuni, were praised as the glory of the entire African nation. I hoped then that life might offer me the opportunity to serve my people and make my own humble contribution to their freedom struggle. This is what has motivated me in all that I have done in relation to the charges made against me in this case." - Nelson MandelaSusan B. Anthony “On Women’s Right to Vote”
"It was we, the people; not we, the white male citizens; nor yet we, the male citizens; but we, the whole people, who formed the Union. And we formed it, not to give the blessings of liberty, but to secure them; not to the half of ourselves and the half of our posterity, but to the whole people—women as well as men. And it is downright mockery to talk to women of their enjoyment of the blessings of liberty while they are denied the use of the only means of securing them provided by this democratic-republican government—the ballot." - Susan B. AnthonyElie Wiesel's "The Perils of Indifference"
"Indifference is not a response. Indifference is not a beginning; it is an end. And, therefore, indifference is always the friend of the enemy, for it benefits the aggressor — never his victim, whose pain is magnified when he or she feels forgotten. The political prisoner in his cell, the hungry children, the homeless refugees — not to respond to their plight, not to relieve their solitude by offering them a spark of hope is to exile them from human memory. And in denying their humanity, we betray our own." - Elie Wiesel
Persuasive essay examples
James Madison’s "Federalist Papers""By a faction, I understand a number of citizens, whether amounting to a majority or a minority of the whole, who are united and actuated by some common impulse of passion, or of interest, adverse to the rights of other citizens, or to the permanent and aggregate interests of the community." - James MadisonSojourner Truth’s “Ain’t I a Woman?”
"Well, children, where there is so much racket there must be something out of kilter. I think that 'twixt the negroes of the South and the women at the North, all talking about rights, the white men will be in a fix pretty soon. But what's all this here talking about? That man over there says that women need to be helped into carriages, and lifted over ditches, and to have the best place everywhere. Nobody ever helps me into carriages, or over mud-puddles, or gives me any best place! And ain't I a woman? Look at me! Look at my arm! I have ploughed and planted, and gathered into barns, and no man could head me! And ain't I a woman? I could work as much and eat as much as a man—when I could get it—and bear the lash as well! And ain't I a woman? I have borne thirteen children, and seen most all sold off to slavery, and when I cried out with my mother's grief, none but Jesus heard me! And ain't I a woman?" - Sojourner TruthFrederick Douglass's "The Meaning of July Fourth for the Negro”
"What, to the American slave, is your 4th of July? I answer; a day that reveals to him, more than all other days in the year, the gross injustice and cruelty to which he is the constant victim. To him, your celebration is a sham; your boasted liberty, an unholy license; your national greatness, swelling vanity; your sounds of rejoicing are empty and heartless; your denunciations of tyrants, brass fronted impudence; your shouts of liberty and equality, hollow mockery; your prayers and hymns, your sermons and thanksgivings, with all your religious parade and solemnity, are, to him, mere bombast, fraud, deception, impiety, and hypocrisy—a thin veil to cover up crimes which would disgrace a nation of savages. There is not a nation on the earth guilty of practices more shocking and bloody than are the people of these United States at this very hour." - Frederick DouglassGeorge Orwell’s “Politics and the English Language”
"The word Fascism has now no meaning except in so far as it signifies 'something not desirable.' The words democracy, socialism, freedom, patriotic, realistic, justice, have each of them several different meanings which cannot be reconciled with one another. In the case of a word like democracy, not only is there no agreed definition, but the attempt to make one is resisted from all sides. It is almost universally felt that when we call a country democratic we are praising it: consequently the defenders of every kind of regime claim that it is a democracy, and fear that they might have to stop using the word if it were tied down to any one meaning. Words of this kind are often used in a consciously dishonest way. That is, the person who uses them has his own private definition, but allows his hearer to think he means something quite different." - George OrwellBetty Friedan’s “The Feminine Mystique”
"The problem lay buried, unspoken, for many years in the minds of American women. It was a strange stirring, a sense of dissatisfaction, a yearning that women suffered in the middle of the twentieth century in the United States. Each suburban wife struggled with it alone. As she made the beds, shopped for groceries, matched slipcover material, ate peanut butter sandwiches with her children, chauffeured Cub Scouts and Brownies, lay beside her husband at night—she was afraid to ask even of herself the silent question—'Is this all?'" - Betty Friedan
Persuasive writing techniques
Here are some of the most effective persuasive writing techniques. Feel free to use the information and infographics in the classroom or for your own use.
Another resource is Engram's Grammar Checker and Paraphraser. Engram's AI tools are optimized to elevate your English to its full potential. Click the button below and write away, worry-free and with ease.
How to start a persuasive speech and essay
Below is a step-by-step infographic on how to write a persuasive speech and essay. Feel free to use the information and infographic in the classroom or for your own use.
Worksheets
Feel free to use these worksheets in the classroom or for your own use.
Persuasive speech
1. Brainstorm at least three topics that you feel passionate about or have a strong opinion on.
2. Choose one topic from your list that you believe would be interesting and relevant to your audience.
Write down your chosen topic in the space provided below:
• Topic:
Activity 2: Audience Analysis
1. Identify the potential audience for your persuasive speech.
2. Consider demographics such as age, education level, and interests.
3. Think about what your audience values and believes in relation to your chosen topic.
Answer the following questions:
• Who is your target audience?
• What are their values and beliefs?
• How might they react to your persuasive message?
Activity 3: Crafting Your Thesis Statement
1. Write a clear and concise thesis statement that presents your main argument or stance on the topic.
2. Ensure that your thesis statement is debatable and can be supported with evidence.
Example:
• Topic: The Importance of Recycling
• Thesis Statement: Recycling is crucial for preserving the environment and reducing our carbon footprint.
Activity 4: Research and Evidence Gathering
1. List three pieces of evidence or supporting points that you could use to strengthen your persuasive argument.
Identify potential counterarguments to your thesis statement:
• Counterargument:
Activity 5: Speech Outline
1. Outline the structure of your persuasive speech using the following template:
• Introduction: hook, topic introduction and thesis Statement
• Body: three main points, three supporting evidences and address counterarguments.
*There can be more than three main points and supporting evidences.
• Conclusion: restate thesis, summarize key points, and call to action or closing statement
Activity 6: Practice and Feedback
1. Practice delivering your persuasive speech in front of a mirror or to a friend.
2. Ask for feedback on your content, delivery, and persuasiveness.
3. Make note of any areas for improvement and adjustments you can make.
Activity 7: Finalization and Delivery
1. Revise your speech based on the feedback received.
2. Edit for clarity, coherence, and effectiveness.
3. Practice your speech until you feel confident and ready to deliver it to your audience.
Activity 8: Reflection
1. Reflect on the process of writing and delivering your persuasive speech.
2. Consider what you learned and how you can apply it to future persuasive speaking opportunities.
3. Write down one thing you are proud of and one thing you would like to improve upon for next time.
Persuasive essay
Read the prompts and questions below, and respond with your own thoughts and ideas about the topic. Use evidence and persuasive techniques to support your arguments.
Topic: Should students be required to wear school uniforms?
1. Introduction
Write a brief introduction stating your position on the topic of school uniforms. Include a hook to grab the reader's attention.
2. Arguments in Favor of School Uniforms
List at least three reasons why you think students should be required to wear school uniforms. Provide evidence or examples to support each argument.
3. Counter Arguments
Anticipate and address potential counterarguments against school uniforms. Explain why these counter arguments are not valid or how they can be addressed.
4. Personal Experience or Anecdotes
Share any personal experiences or anecdotes you have related to school uniforms, if applicable. How have school uniforms impacted your school experience or the experiences of others you know?
5. Appeals to Emotion, Logic, and Ethics
Use persuasive techniques such as appeals to emotion (pathos), logic (logos), and ethics (ethos) to strengthen your argument. Provide examples of how you can appeal to each of these aspects.
6. Conclusion
Write a concluding paragraph summarizing your main arguments and reiterating your position on the topic. End with a call to action or a thought-provoking statement to leave a lasting impression on the reader.
Grading rubrics
Below, we have provided example rubrics to grade persuasive speeches and essays. Feel free to use or modify these rubrics in the classroom or for your own use.
Persuasive speech
• Clear thesis statement: 10 points
• Strong supporting arguments: 10 points
• Effective use of evidence: 10 points
• Rebuttal of counterarguments: 10 points
Organization (20 points)
• Clear introduction with attention-grabbing hook: 5 points
• Logical and coherent flow of ideas: 5 points
• Smooth transitions between main points: 5 points
• Clear conclusion summarizing main points and reinforcing thesis: 5 points
Delivery (20 points)
• Confidence and enthusiasm: 5 points
• Eye contact with the audience: 5 points
• Vocal variety and clarity: 5 points
• Gestures and body language: 5 points
Language and Style (15 points)
• Use of persuasive language and rhetorical devices: 5 points
• Clarity and precision of language: 5 points
• Appropriateness of language for audience and topic: 5 points
Time Management (5 points)
• Adherence to time limit: 5 points
Overall Impact (Bonus)
• Ability to engage and persuade the audience beyond the rubric criteria: Bonus points
Total: 100 points
Persuasive essay
| Criteria | Excellent (4) | Good (3) | Fair (2) | Needs Improvement (1) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Thesis Statement | Clear, concise, and assertive thesis statement that presents a strong argument and establishes a clear position on the topic. | Thesis statement is clear but may lack specificity or assertiveness in presenting the argument or position. | Thesis statement is vague or unclear, making it difficult to discern the writer's argument or position on the topic. | Thesis statement is missing or does not effectively present an argument or position on the topic. |
| Argument Development | Presents compelling and well-developed arguments supported by relevant evidence, examples, and logical reasoning. Counterarguments are acknowledged and effectively addressed. | Presents coherent arguments supported by adequate evidence and reasoning. Some counterarguments may be addressed but could be more thoroughly explored. | Arguments are somewhat unclear or lack sufficient evidence and reasoning to support the main points. Counterarguments are not adequately addressed. | Arguments are weak, unsupported, or irrelevant to the topic. Counterarguments are ignored or dismissed without consideration. |
| Organization | Essay is well-organized with a clear introduction, body paragraphs that present arguments in a logical sequence, and a strong conclusion that reinforces the main points and leaves a lasting impact. | Essay is mostly organized with an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion, but may lack coherence or flow in the presentation of arguments. | Organization of the essay is somewhat unclear or disjointed, making it difficult to follow the progression of ideas. Some sections may be missing or poorly structured. | Essay lacks clear organization, with ideas presented haphazardly or inconsistently. Introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion may be missing or poorly developed. |
| Use of Persuasive Techniques | Effectively employs a variety of persuasive techniques, such as ethos, pathos, logos, rhetorical devices, and appeals to emotion, credibility, and logic, to engage the audience and strengthen the argument. | Utilizes persuasive techniques to engage the audience and support the argument, but may lack depth or variety in their application. | Attempts to use persuasive techniques, but they are not consistently applied or may be used ineffectively. | Little to no use of persuasive techniques, resulting in a weak or unconvincing argument. |
| Language and Style | Demonstrates a sophisticated command of language and style, with precise wording, vivid imagery, and engaging language that effectively communicates the writer's message and enhances the persuasive impact of the essay. | Language and style are mostly effective in conveying the writer's message, but may lack consistency or flair. Some areas of the essay may be overly verbose or lacking in clarity. | Language and style are adequate but may be bland or repetitive, detracting from the overall persuasiveness of the essay. Some errors in grammar, punctuation, or syntax may be present. | Language and style are weak or ineffective, hindering the reader's understanding or engagement with the essay. Numerous errors in grammar, punctuation, or syntax may be present. |
| Overall Persuasiveness | Persuasive essay effectively convinces the audience to adopt the writer's viewpoint or take a specific action. Arguments are compelling, well-supported, and leave a lasting impression on the reader. | Persuasive essay presents a convincing argument that engages the audience and makes a strong case for the writer's viewpoint or desired action. Some areas may be weaker or less persuasive than others. | Persuasive essay makes an attempt to persuade the audience but may fall short in effectively presenting or supporting the arguments. Overall persuasiveness is limited. | Persuasive essay lacks persuasiveness, with weak arguments, insufficient evidence, or ineffective use of persuasive techniques. Audience is unlikely to be persuaded by the writer's arguments. |
Conclusion
Writing a persuasive essay requires careful planning, strong evidence, and compelling arguments to sway your audience to your viewpoint.
By following the strategies outlined in this blog post, you can craft compelling essays that effectively persuade your readers to embrace any viewpoint. So, whether you're advocating for a political stance, promoting a social cause, or arguing for a particular policy, use these techniques to make your or your student's voice heard and influence change.
Check out Engram's Grammar Checker to level up your English and ensure that grammatical and punctuation errors do not get in the way of your persuasion skills. Write away with confidence!
References:
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