7 score and 10 years ago (150 years), Lincoln used a paper copy of the Gettysburg Address. This prepared speech was the 1800s version of today's TelePrompTer.
The technology used to present a prepared speech has changed over the years. Other written means have been used by public figures, actors and entertainers to remember lines such as cue cards. It is rumored that renowned actor Marlon Brando had his lines written on a watermelon for a scene in one movie. The 1st part of MLK's dream speech was on paper with the ending a retelling of another speech he had practiced by giving it several times before at other gatherings.
Today’s equipment for reading a script can either be freestanding for a public event or attached to the front of a TV camera. Even those publicly stating their opposition to others use of a TelePrompTer have read from a script running on a different camera than the one that was recording them. Others were photographed using the old school test cheat of written notes on the back of their hand. At pop concerts some musicians hide reminders such as sheet music while an orchestra will have it in plain view on a music stand. Some musicians use TelePrompTers in concert even for lyrics they wrote. Elvis read from a sheet of paper for Burnin' Love in the movie Elvis On Tour.
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Without some form of reference, ad-libbed speeches are often described as rambling.
Also on November 19 in 1831, President James Garfield who was also shot while in office was born.
