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.
Franklin Delano Roosevelt |
