Obama's Big Morning in Philadelphia
Whistle Stop Tour starts with a call for courage and sacrifice.
Sunday, Jan 18, 2009 | Updated 7:50 AM EDT
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"Let's make sure this election is not the end of what we do to change America, but the beginning and the hope for the future."
President-elect Barack Obama is calling on Americans to live up to the courage and sacrifice of the country's founders as they strive to redeem the promise of freedom.
In a speech to a crowd gathered at Philadelphia's 30th St. Station, Obama talked of the heavy challenges facing people now, including a staggering economy and global warming.
WATCH: "Hello Philadelphia!" Obama's Speech in Philadelphia
He said people must recognize that there will be "false starts and setbacks, frustrations and disappointments," but argued that this is not the time to get discouraged.
Obama said the American Revolution "was -- and remains -- an ongoing struggle in the hearts and minds of the people to live up to our freedom."
Preparing to board a train for his ride to the nation's capital, Obama said that "what's required is a new declaration of independence -- from ideology and small thinking."
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