This case study contends communication is the key element that enables transformational leadership. This research examines President Barack Obama's rhetoric in six of his speeches, which demonstrate his transformational leadership is manifested through his communication, specifically that of the African American jeremiad. While transformational leadership is explored thoroughly in the literature, few have focused on the communication aspect. Obama's transformational leadership is assessed through his charismatic, visionary, unifying, motivating, hopeful, innovative, and guilt laden communication framed within the African American jeremiad and his transformational rhetoric. This thesis contributes to the field of communication by raising awareness about the close relationship between transformational leadership and rhetoric.
