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Pearl Harbor Speech by F.D.R.
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 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.
Franklin Roosevelt
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