Indeed, Barack Obama has exceptional qualities and deserves kudos for his achievement. He is genteel, articulate, poised and charming. He is a Harvard-educated lawyer, yet he remains accessible to the common man. He has been married since 1992, has two lovely daughters and is by all accounts a devoted family man. He is a pious Christian and a member of the United Church of Christ. He has virtually sky-rocketed into the national spotlight-winning a landslide victory in his Senate race in 2004; he became the fifth African American Senator in U.S. history and the only current African American Senator. His fame has been enhanced by the publication of two-bestsellers, Dreams from My Father (1995) and The Audacity of Hope (2006). He now trails only behind Hillary in his bid to secure the nomination of his party. And he has done all of this even before he celebrates his forty-sixth birthday later this summer.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- This passage outlines Obama's background, achievements, and personal qualities, highlighting his rise in politics and public profile.
- In plain terms
- It summarizes his education, family, career milestones, and growing political prominence.
- What can you take from it?
- Personal background and achievements contribute to political credibility.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What background factors matter in politics?
- How much does personal story influence voters?
Another view
Background alone does not guarantee effective governance or policy success.
More from Barack Obama
But it's clear that Obama also is running for an equally important unelected office, in the province of the popular imagination - the 'Magic Negro.'
Permalink to quote #74 You are among the two or three most talented people I have ever met in politics.
Permalink to quote #76 I am excited. Of course, I'm endorsing Senator Obama. He has made that decision and I think this is an exciting time for the country. It brings a new voice in …
Permalink to quote #73
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