HISTORIC SPEECHES
FRANKLIN D. ROOSEVELT
War Message
December 8, 1941
Yesterday, December 7, 1941--a date which will live in
infamy--the United States of America was suddenly and deliberately
attacked by naval and air forces of the Empire of Japan.
The United States was at peace with that nation and, at
the solicitation of Japan, was still in conversation with
its Government and its Emperor looking toward the maintenance
of peace in the Pacific.
Indeed, one hour after Japanese air squadrons had commenced
bombing Oahu, the Japanese Ambassador to the United States
and his colleague delivered to the Secretary of State a
formal reply to a recent American message. While this reply
stated that it seemed useless to continue the existing
diplomatic negotiations, it contained no threat or hint
of war or armed attack.
It will be recorded that the distance of Hawaii from Japan
makes it obvious that the attack was deliberately planned
many days or even weeks ago. During the intervening time,
the Japanese Government has deliberately sought to deceive
the United States by false statements and expressions of
hope for continued peace. The attack yesterday on the Hawaiian
Islands has caused severe damage to American naval and
military forces. Very many American lives have been lost.
In addition, American ships have been reported torpedoed
on the high seas between San Francisco and Honolulu.
Yesterday the Japanese Government also launched an attack
against Malaya.
Last night Japanese forces attacked Hong Kong.
Last night Japanese forces attacked Guam.
Last night Japanese forces attacked the Philippine Islands.
Last night the Japanese attacked Wake Island.
This morning the Japanese attacked Midway Island.
Japan has, therefore, undertaken a surprise offensive
extending throughout the Pacific area. The facts of yesterday
speak for themselves. The people of the United States have
already formed their opinions and well understand the implications
to the very life and safety of our nation.
As Commander in Chief of the army and navy I have directed
that all measures be taken for our defense.
Always will we remember the character of the onslaught
against us.
No matter how long it may take us to overcome this premeditated
invasion, the American people in their righteous might
will win through to absolute victory. I believe I interpret
the will of the Congress and of the people when I assert
that we will not only defend ourselves to the uttermost
but Will make very certain that this form of treachery
shall never endanger us again.
Hostilities exist. There is no blinking at the fact that
our people, our territory and our interests are in grave
danger.
With confidence in our armed forces-with the unbounding
determination of our people-we will gain the inevitable
triumph-so help us God.
I ask that the Congress declare that since the unprovoked
and dastardly attack by Japan on Sunday, December 7, a
state of war has existed between the United States and
the Japanese Empire.
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