14 Jul THE SEVENTH ESTATE: A HISTORY OF KEYNOTE SPEAKERS AND MOTIVATIONAL SPEAKING
A highly-regarded group within The 7th Estate, the tradition of keynote speakers can be traced back to the practice of public speaking in ancient times, but the exact origin is difficult to determine. What say we talk about the general evolution of public speaking and the motivational speaker’s role?
Ancient Times: The art of oration was cultivated and highly valued in ancient civilizations, particularly in Greece and Rome. Figures like Aristotle and Cicero were masters of rhetoric, and their works continue to influence modern public speaking. Although the role of a ‘keynote speaker’ didn’t yet exist, per se, these orators often fulfilled a similar purpose, delivering important speeches to large audiences.
Middle Ages: Throughout the Middle Ages, the tradition of public speaking continued, particularly in the form of sermons delivered by clergy, speeches by political leaders, and lectures by scholars.
Renaissance and Enlightenment: Defining eras like these were periods of renewed interest in the arts and sciences, including the art of rhetoric. Public speaking took many forms, including political speeches, religious sermons, and academic lectures.
19th Century: This was a period of great public discourse, with the tradition of public speaking gaining momentum in political, academic, and social arenas. The concept of a ‘keynote speech’ emerged during this time, particularly in the context of political conventions. The keynote speech was the principal address that set the underlying tone and core message for the event.
20th Century to Present: With the advent of new technology and media in the 20th and 21st centuries, the reach and influence of keynote speakers expanded significantly. Today, keynote speakers are a central feature of corporate events, academic conferences, political rallies, and even online webinars. Famous presenters can include industry leaders, celebrities, academics, or motivational speakers. An address of this kind sets the general vibe for the event, and the speaker is usually chosen for their expertise, charisma, or authority in the field.
The history of keynote speakers, therefore, is deeply entwined with the history of public speaking itself. Over centuries, this tradition has evolved and adapted to changing societal contexts and technological advancements, continuing to play a significant role in events and conferences today.
