Why do you think they applauded Malone's speech

As people felt that his speech was trustworthy and can be relied on.

Explanation:

Malone's speech was highly applauded when he spoke what we as citizens could do for the betterment of the future generation. He asked the people to pass on to the next generation to observe what they have made and the lessons they have learnt through it.

He asked them to inculcate distinction between religion and science. He asked them to teach their children both so that they would be on par for the betterment of the future generation. As during that time war had devoured more than 20 million people he warned them to let their children be with open mind trying to take in and acquire knowledge.