The spoken word is a powerful tool and when used correctly, it can have a lasting impact. Over the course of human history, speeches have often been at the forefront when great change has occurred. The reason for this is not only because of the words, but how they are delivered.

While there are many great speakers, the difference between the greatest orators of all time is their ability to connect with the audience and not speaking over them. It is easy to do as a speaker, especially when trying to convey complex ideas and information. You can easily get carried away using complicated sentences and advanced vocabulary. Truly legendary speakers, however, focus on using conversational English to drive their message.

So, if you are planning on becoming a great orator, it is probably a good idea to find good conversational English classes. Here are 5 of the best orators in American history.

Martin Luther King Jr.

Why not start with one of the most powerful speakers of all time. MLK delivered legendary speeches across the entire country fighting for Civil Rights. As a pastor, he was well-versed in how to deliver a message that resonates.

His ability to connect with people is what set him apart. In his speeches, he used imagery that people could relate to, which helped spread his message of love and equality to masses of people far beyond those he was speaking with.

Abraham Lincoln

Another monumental figure in American history, Abraham Lincoln delivered some of the most well-known speeches of all-time. His conversational English approach reached people far and wide. From the battlefield to the halls of Congress, Lincoln was always able to leave a lasting impact. Perhaps more than any other orator, Lincoln’s speeches had direct results.

His messages produced actions that helped shape the country for generations and continue to have a lasting impact today.

Steve Jobs

Being a great orator doesn’t mean you have to be a president or fighting for social causes. Steve Jobs connected with people to show them the future. While behind the scenes he may have been difficult to work with, on stage, he was able to show people what was possible. His use of conversational English allowed him to convey very technical information to millions of people.

In his own way, Jobs may have had a bigger impact than any other American. His speeches and presentations helped people access information and changed the way we live.

Barack Obama

Perhaps the most well-versed public speaker, Barack Obama was truly a pioneer. His calm demeanor and simple language helped him break so many barriers. As the first African American president, Obama used his speaking ability to change the views of millions of Americans.

Delivering remarks on several topics, Obama reached millions of people around the world with a message of hope and prosperity that continues to help America around the world to this day.

Gloria Steinem

As a female activist and journalist, Steinem played an instrumental role in advocating for women’s rights. Using her platform, Steinem called out the injustices she saw with grace. Appealing to a new generation of Americans, Steinem was able to change the minds of millions of people about the role of women.

Her ability to reach a wide audience with her message helped pave the way for women around the US.