What is the origin of extempo?

Extemporaneous speaking, often referred to as "extempo," has its roots in classical rhetoric and public speaking traditions. It emerged as a distinct form of competitive speaking in the early 20th century, particularly within forensic and debate communities. The practice emphasizes the ability to think and speak spontaneously on a given topic, allowing speakers to showcase their knowledge, critical thinking, and communication skills. Today, it is commonly featured in speech and debate competitions around the world.