Senator Barry Goldwater Acceptance Speech 1964 Republican National Convention in San Francisco, CA

This is the full acceptance speech by Senator Barry Goldwater at the 1964 Republican National Convention in San Francisco (actually Daly City), California. The convention was held at the Cow Palace in Daly City. This speech as delivered on July 16, 1964.

Goldwater, a US Senator from Arizona, was the leader of the conservatives. He is largely credited with winning the Republican nomination because New York Governor Nelson Rockefeller, the leading liberal contender for the nomination, self-destructed over the "wife-swapping" scandal. Whatever the facts of Rockefeller's personal life, his new wife giving birth during the campaign made many in the GOP uncomfortable nominating him.

The most famous line from the speech was, "I would remind you that extremism in the defense of liberty is no vice. And let me remind you also that moderation in the pursuit of justice is no virtue." While extremely popular with conservatives eager to hit back after so many liberal Republicans blasted conservatives for years over being "extremists," the line only perpetuated the fight over the direction of the party. The line tended to alienate and drive away liberals and moderates instead of unifying the party around a common philosophy. This appears obvious when panning certain delegations shows some delegates offering only a tepid response, while other groups of delegates react enthusiastically to the same line.

The delivery is not the best, but the speech includes many worthwhile lines outlining the agenda of a conservative government. Goldwater was serious, stern, and appeared on a mission. Viewers could be forgiven if they mistook Goldwater's sense or purpose for anger.

Reagan, a professional performer, a natural optimist, probably learned a great deal from Goldwater on what not to do. As fantastic as Reagan's October 1964 "A Time for Choosing" speech is, the delivery is also quite serious and stern. However, by the time then Governor Reagan returns to the national stage at the 1976 Republican National Convention, his speeches are optimistic, uplifting, and appeal to listeners personal sense of patriotism.