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Date: 1941
Source:
The "Infamy Speech" was a speech delivered by U.S. President Franklin D. Roosevelt to the United States Congress on December 8, 1941, the day after the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor. The speech is one of the most famous and significant speeches in American history, and it marked the entry of the United States into World War II.
In the speech, Roosevelt declared that the attack on Pearl Harbor was a "day which will live in infamy," and called for a declaration of war against Japan. He recounted the events of the previous day, describing the surprise attack on the U.S. naval base at Pearl Harbor, which resulted in the deaths of over 2,400 Americans and the destruction of much of the Pacific Fleet.
Roosevelt's speech was significant for several reasons. First, it was a rallying cry for the American people, who had previously been divided on the question of whether to enter the war. Second, it marked the entry of the United States into World War II, which would ultimately lead to the defeat of Germany, Japan, and the Axis powers. Finally, the speech has become a symbol of American resilience and determination in the face of adversity, and it is still widely remembered and celebrated today.
In conclusion, the "Infamy Speech" was a speech delivered by President Franklin D. Roosevelt to the United States Congress on December 8, 1941, following the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor. The speech marked the entry of the United States into World War II, and it has become a symbol of American resilience and determination in the face of adversity.
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 in Oahu, the Japanese Ambassador to the United States and his colleague delivered to the Secre- tary of State a form reply to a recent American message. While this reply stated that it seemed useless to continue the existing diplomatic negotia- tions, it contained no threat or hit of war or armed attack.
It will be recorded that the distance of Hawaii from Japan makes it ob- vious that the attack was deliberately planned many days or even weeks ago. During the intervening time the Japanese Government had 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 Midway Island.
Japan has, therefore, undertaken a surprise offensive extending through- out 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 unbounded 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 seventh, a state of war has existed between the United States and the Japanese Empire.
Franklin D. Roosevelt The White House, December 8, 1941
Cite Article : www.canadahistory.com/sections/documents
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Reference: Article by (Staff Historian), 2023
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