December 8, 1941
Franklin Roosevelt "A Date Which Will Live
in Infamy"
Joint Session of the U.S Congress
Following December 7, 1941
attack on Pearl Harbor, Roosevelt declares war on Japan.
MP3 - 7.3 Megs
Yesterday, December 7, 1941—a date which will live in
infamy—the United States of American 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 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 as 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 Japanese forces 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 implication 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.
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