FRANKLIN D. ROOSEVELT'S PEARL HARBOR SPEECHDeclaration
Nimitz
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.