How did large congregations of people hear speeches (i.e. Lincoln’s address, and countless other older speeches) without the use of microphones?

Question

How did large congregations of people hear speeches (i.e. Lincoln’s address, and countless other older speeches) without the use of microphones?

In: Technology

Answer 1

I think crowds were much quieter and listened. Because of PA systems people in crowds are much louder because they can be. The PA system at a basketball game, for example, is insanely loud. As a result, people in the audience are yelling at the person next to them. It’s like an arms race.