Winter 2001, Vol. 33, No. 4 | Our Heritage in Documents. refer to caption. Enlarge. The USS Arizona seen burning after the attack by the Japanese at Pearl Harbor.
Seventy-nine years ago this Dec. 7, the Empire of Japan carried out a sneak attack on American military forces at Pearl Harbor in Hawaii. President Franklin D. Roosevelt delivered a speech to Congress the following day, famously calling the attack a date that will "live in infamy."
In his speech, President Roosevelt informed the American people that the United States had been attacked by naval and air forces of Japan. He emphasized that the U.S. was at peace with Japan before the attack and was still in talks with the Japanese government to maintain peace in the Pacific.
A gifted communicator, Roosevelt used his oratory to calm Americans' fears during both Depression and war—and to rally them around his leadership following the attack on Pearl Harbor. His speech united the nation in a time of crisis and set the stage for American involvement in World War II.
The attack on Pearl Harbor marked a turning point in U.S. history, propelling the country into a global conflict that would shape the course of the 20th century. The nation came together in the face of adversity, standing strong against the forces of tyranny and aggression.
In the hours following Japan's devastating attack on U.S. military forces in Hawaii, the president was remembered for “not losing his cool” and maintaining a sense of calm resolve. His leadership during this tumultuous time helped guide the nation through the challenges ahead.
A speechwriter dissects Franklin Roosevelt's famous Pearl Harbor address, analyzing the words and phrases that resonated with the American people. The speech remains a powerful reminder of the importance of strong leadership in times of crisis.
President Roosevelt's address to Congress after the attack on Pearl Harbor highlighted the need for unity and resolve in the face of adversity. His words inspired a generation to stand together and fight for freedom and democracy.
