How we cite our quotes: (Sentence)
Quote #1
Primarily this is because the rulers of the exchange of mankind's goods have failed, through their own stubbornness and their own incompetence, have admitted their failure, and abdicated. (18)
The opening of Roosevelt's first inaugural address is meant to reassure people that despite the country's current predicament, it is still in good shape. Specifically, he speaks of America's richness in natural resources. There is plenty for us to use and improve, he says, but "the rulers of the exchange" had let these go to waste for the sake of profit.
Quote #2
Practices of the unscrupulous money changers stand indicted in the court of public opinion, rejected by the hearts and minds of men. (19)
Of course, this is the only court that really matters to Roosevelt at this point. The indictment by the public paved the way for FDR to take drastic and dramatic action against the banks. He reined in their ability to speculate and enacted federal deposit insurance so that banking runs would be a thing of the past.
Quote #3
Stripped of the lure of profit by which to induce our people to follow their false leadership, they have resorted to exhortations, pleading tearfully for restored confidence. (22)
Now that Roosevelt has his target, he refuses to let go. The banks had led the American public astray and were hopelessly begging for people and their money to return. FDR (accurately) paints himself as the only one with the capabilities to lead them to safety.