Watch: 14 of the 'most inspiring convention speeches' in history

Hurricane Isaac may have washed out many of today's planned festivities at the 2012 Republican National Convention in Tampa, but motivated Republicans can still bask in the excitement of rousing convention speeches -- thanks to the American Enterprise Institute.

AEI has compiled this slideshow of 14 of the most inspiring convention speeches in U.S. History.

From the keynote address to the nomination acceptance speech, presidential nominating conventions serve as a showcase for prominent leaders to convey the party's principals and enduring messages. Here's a look at 14 of the most inspiring convention speeches in U.S. history. Click on the slideshow to enlarge and hit the "play" button on each slide for a transcript or video of each speech.