How we cite our quotes: (Sentence)
Quote #1
Some of our people like to believe that wars in Europe and in Asia are of no concern to us. But it is a matter of most vital concern to us that European and Asiatic war-makers should not gain control of the oceans that lead to this hemisphere. (24-25)
You know your geography, so you're probably already aware that the Atlantic Ocean and the Pacific Ocean act as pretty large natural boundaries between Europe and Asia. They're what have kept us safe from invasion throughout history, and they've also provided a way for us to keep our noses out of other people's business. That wouldn't be the case if the Axis had control over the oceans—we wouldn't be isolated from the problem anymore, and if it comes to that point, none of our allies would be left to help us out.
(Psst: Philip K. Dick wrote a great novel about an alternate reality in which the Axis won World War II called The Man in the High Castle. Check it out.)
Quote #2
Does anyone seriously believe that we need to fear attack anywhere in the Americas while a free Britain remains our most powerful naval neighbor in the Atlantic? And does anyone seriously believe, on the other hand, that we could rest easy if the Axis powers were our neighbors there? (30-31)
World War II is known as "the last good war," because the fighting led to an increase in economic production and put a stop to the Great Depression. But more importantly, everyone was united against a common enemy, this power-crazy group of people who were determined to enslave entire populations and get rid of freedom and equality.
All the good guys were fighting to prevent this from happening, so if one group fell—particularly the British, who were our strongest ally and the strongest power in Europe—the United States didn't stand a chance, so we couldn't really pretend what was happening didn't affect us.
Quote #3
The American appeasers ignore the warning to be found in the fate of Austria, Czechoslovakia, Poland, Norway, Belgium, the Netherland, Denmark, and France. (96)
As if Americans needed any further proof the Germans weren't messing around, they'd already wreaked havoc all over continental Europe. Millions of innocent people were displaced and hurt, and we know now that large amounts of Jews and other "inferior" populations were sent to concentration camps.
FDR was trying to make it clear that these people—some of which lived in countries who placed high value on freedom and independence—were falling victim to the Axis agenda, and the Americans had a responsibility, both as the largest democratic country in the world and as human beings, to do something to help.