James Baldwin v. William F. Buckley (1965) | Legendary Debate

Perhaps due to the lack of depth or lack of historical depth, but many overlook the time of this debate, "1965". Again, 1965. It was a time segregation was wide spread in the United States and along with it, an 'in your face hatred'. Baldwin was stating his argument in a mostly white forum in a different country. Even he didn't expect what would happen Hence, the surprised look on his face when they gave him a standing ovation. Though also American, I would imagine Buckley was much more comfortable in his own skin. No pun intended. Considering the position, Baldwin composure, bravery and delivery was enviable. Most people "regardless of color of skin" would've never done it. Therefore, one has to give Baldwin massive, and I mean massive respect.

The opening speaker was excellent too. He had a strong well supported description of the problem. We need this type of programming now. Critical thinking needs to be revived.

"The country who you pledged allegiance to did not pledge allegiance to you! " I got that.

THIS DEBATE TOOK PLACE 3 DAYS BEFORE MALCOLM X WAS ASSASSINATED....

Baldwin was a force of nature. One of the most eloquent speeches I think I have ever seen.

“Until this moment, there is scarcely any hope for the American dream, because the people who are denied participation in it, by their very presence will wreck it; and if that happens it’s a very grave moment for the West.” If any statement could sum up the 55+ years that followed up this speech it would be that.

Excellent speech. I'm 73 years old and am surprised I never heard it before. He was a brilliant man.

"It's called the American Dream because you have to be asleep to believe it." - George Carlin

What a gift, what a blessing it is to be able to see and hear this sort of debate for free and so easily.

James Baldwin has the most expressive eyes.....he said SO MUCH......even when he wasn't uttering a Word!!!!

Mr. Baldwin is spell binding, mesmerizing, courageous, brave, intelligent and brilliant.

James Baldwin's face when Buckley was speaking 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

William Buckley believed in an idealized version of America and James Baldwin lived in and saw the real America.

I noticed how Buckley claimed Baldwin was affecting a British accent. At the same time I could detect a distinctly southern accent peeking through Mr. Buckley very distinguished way of talk.

My folks spoke highly of Mr. Baldwin for years after this went down in 65. I was not born until 1968.

Remember when such fundamental debates were held, recorded and even broadcast.

I got chills when James Baldwin received a standing ovation! Brave and so intelligent. Baldwin won hands down

No one is more convinced and enamored of Buckley's intelligence than Buckley.

what a powerful and erudite speech by mr Baldwin

Baldwin was a great sociologist as well as a great writer. His essays are both art and social science simultaneously .