Winston Churchill

Winston Churchill - Zürcher RedeChurchill’s speech in Zurich 

Winston Churchill’s “Speech to the academic youth” was held on September 19th 1946 at the University of Zurich in Switzerland.

It is considered ground-breaking for the further development of a united Europe.
 
 

Original speech (excerpt):

“Our constant aim must be to build and fortify the strength of the United Nations Organization. Under and within that world concept we must re-create the European Family in a regional structure called, it may be, the United States of Europe. And the first practical step would be to form a Council of Europe. If at first all the States of Europe are not willing or able to join the Union, we must nevertheless proceed to assemble and combine those who will and those who can. The salvation of the common people of every race and of every land from war or servitude must be established on solid foundations and must be guarded by the readiness of all men and women to die rather than submit to tyranny. In all this urgent work, France and Germany must take the lead together. Great Britain, the British Commonwealth of Nations, mighty America and I trust Soviet Russia-for then indeed all would be well-must be the friends and sponsors of the new Europe and must champion its right to live and shine.

Therefore I say to you: let Europe arise!”

 

Life recording of the speech (excerpt starting at 15:41):

[yendifplayer audio=2]

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Source: Die Zeit
Photo © Hans Staub, Fotostiftung Schweiz

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