Speaking engagements
“Steve Vesce is a dynamic speaker who explores the pivotal people, events, and issues that shaped America from the Great Depression through victory in World War II, blending economic, political, and cultural perspectives, He has given many talks at our organization and he brings to life the struggles and triumphs of a nation transformed by depression, war, and resilience—offering audiences a deeper understanding of how this critical era redefined the American story and the America we know today.”​ - Mark Oroyan, Director of Membership, Spring Run
Below are just some of the talks Steve has given to large and small audiences alike. In addition to those shown below, Steve has delivered talks on General Dwight D. Eisenhower, General George Patton, General George Marshall, Eugenics, and of course, Harry Hopkins. If you are interested in having Steve present to your club, company, or group, please use the Contact Form on this site.
Adolf Hitler
An examination of Hitler's rise to power and his destruction of Germany's democratic institutions from the inside of the German government. Little known is the fact that the constitution of the democratic Weimar Republic that existed when Hitler came to power in 1933 was still in place when he committed suicide in 1945.
WINSTON S. CHURCHILL
An in depth discussion of the legendary leader and the challenges he faced in his early life and during World War II. A remarkable story of a man determined to realize his own prophecy that he would save his beloved England from destruction. As we know, he did, and in the process helped to save democracy for future generations.
FRANKLIN Delano Roosevelt
A candid discussion of the polio stricken president who led America out of the economic tsunami called "The Great Depression", defeated Fascism in the U.S. and abroad, and won victory in World War II. He served four terms in office as U.S. President and was beloved. This talk discusses the man, his family, and the people around him who were all committed to saving American democracy from the threat of authoritarianism which threatened the country from within and without.
1942
A discussion of the courageous people and chilling events during the most challenging and terrifying year of World War II for America and its Allies. Characterized by repeated enemy victories in the Pacific and Europe it was only after a little bit of savvy, some grit, and a lot of luck did America turn the tide with the battle of Midway in the Pacific and Operation Torch in North Africa in the Fall.
THE FOUR FREEDOMS
During his January 6, 1941 State of the Union Address, President Franklin Delano Roosevelt (FDR) put forward a new vision for America and the world. Little did anyone know at that time, but that simple, yet profound vision for the world would help to create a world order based on the principles of American democracy and the rule of law. A world that looks toward American leadership and democracy for it guiding light. This talk discusses FDR's Four Freedoms and the impact not only during World War II but in the 80 years since.
JOSEPH STALIN
A talk on the incredible reign of one of the most brutal leaders in history and his relationship with Churchill and FDR during World War II. A man who was responsible for the death of millions of his own countrymen prior to WWII and whose country lost more than 25 million people to Hitler's Nazi war machine. It is a fascinating examination and discussion of a man and the authoritarian regime he led.
