Television in Presidential Politics | JIAWEI TANG | TEDxYouth@BBA

This talk focuses on two well-known US presidents, Ronald Reagan and Bill Clinton, and examines the key role TV played in their legendary political rise. Their stories, however, are more than a litany of dry political events. Punctuated by historically significant video clips that are also often hilarious, this talk offers a light-hearted respite from the seriousness that can usually pervade such talks.

Hi, I am Tang, Jiawei (Malcolm) from Class1, Grade 12. In the past US election season, you probably all heard a little about candidates’ debates and speeches here and there. Maybe not as important today, but through the ubiquitous medium of TV they once meant life or death, swim or sink for countless politicians. My talk will focus on two well-known US presidents, Ronald Reagan and Bill Clinton, and examine the key role TV played in their legendary political rise. Their stories, however, are more than a litany of dry political events. Punctuated by historically significant video clips that are also often hilarious, my tale, I hope, will offer a light-hearted respite from the seriousness that can usually pervade such talks. Personally I am well versed in this topic. Aside from my keen interest in history and politics generally, I have an “addiction” to watching speeches and debates.

This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at http://ted.com/tedx