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Franklin Delano Roosevelt
War Message to Congress
8 December 1941
Mr. Vice President, Mr. Speaker, Members of the Senate, and of the House of Representatives:
Yesterday, December 7th, 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 the American island
of Oahu, the Japanese ambassador to the United States and his colleague delivered to our
Secretary of State a formal reply to a recent American message. And while this reply stated that
it seemed useless to continue the existing diplomatic negotiations, it contained no threat or hint
of war or of 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. I regret to tell you that 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.
And this morning, the Japanese attacked Midway Island.
Japan has, therefore, undertaken a surprise offensive extending throughout the Pacific area. The
facts of yesterday and today 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.