Posted by Christopher Gray

FRANKLIN D. ROOSEVELT'S PEARL HARBOR SPEECH

(December 8, 1941)

To the Congress of the United States:

Yesterday, Dec. 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 the government and its emperor looking
toward the maintenance of peace in the Pacific.

Indeed, one hour after Japanese air squadrons had commenced bombing in Oahu,
the Japanese ambassador to the United States and his colleagues 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 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, Dec. 7, a state of war has existed between the
United States and the Japanese empire.