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On December 7, 1941, Japan attacked the United States, despite ongoing diplomatic negotiations. The attack caused damage to US naval and military forces and resulted in many American lives lost. Japan also attacked other areas in the Pacific. President Roosevelt declared war and vowed to defend the nation.
“Yesterday, December 7, 1941 – a date which will live in infamy – the United States of America was suddenly and deliberately attacked by the naval and air forces of the Empire of Japan.
The United States was at peace with that nation and, at Japan’s urging, was still in conversation with its government and its emperor, trying to keep the peace in the Pacific. Indeed, an hour after Japanese air squadrons began bombing Oahu, the Japanese ambassador to the United States and his colleague delivered a formal response to a recent American message to the Secretary of State. While this response stated that it seemed futile to continue existing diplomatic negotiations, it contained no threat or hint of war or armed attack.
It will be recorded that Hawaii’s distance from Japan makes it evident that the attack was deliberately planned many days or even weeks ago. Meanwhile the Japanese government has deliberately tried to deceive the United States with false statements and expressions of hope for continued peace.
Yesterday’s attack on the Hawaiian islands caused serious damage to US naval and military forces. Many American lives have been lost. In addition, there have been reports of American ships being torpedoed on the high seas between San Francisco and Honolulu.
The Japanese government also launched an attack on Malaysia yesterday. Japanese forces attacked Hong Kong last night. Last night Japanese forces attacked Guam. Last night Japanese forces attacked the Philippine Islands. The Japanese attacked Wake Island last night. This morning the Japanese attacked Midway Island.
Japan then embarked on a surprise offensive extending throughout the Pacific area. Yesterday’s events speak for themselves. The people of the United States have already formed their opinions and well understand the implications for the life and security of our nation.
As Commander-in-Chief of the Army and Navy, I have ordered that all measures be taken for our defense.
We will always remember the character of the assault against us. No matter how long it takes to overcome this premeditated invasion, the American people in their rightful power will win outright victory.
I believe I am interpreting the will of Congress and the people when I say that we will not only defend ourselves to the hilt, but will make great sure that this form of treason never puts us in danger again.
There are hostilities. It is overlooked that our people, our territory and our interests are in grave danger.
With confidence in our armed forces – with the boundless determination of our people – we will achieve the inevitable triumph – so help us God.
I request that Congress declare that since Japan’s unprovoked and dastardly attack on Sunday, December XNUMXth, a state of war has existed between the United States and the Japanese Empire.”
–Franklin Delano Roosevelt at a joint session of Congress on December 8, 1941.
