Franklin Delano Roosevelt's "Day of Infamy" speech, delivered to a joint session of Congress on December 8, 1941, remains one of the most impactful and memorable addresses in American history. This post provides the full transcript, followed by an analysis of its rhetorical power and lasting legacy.
The Full Transcript of the Day of Infamy Speech
Mr. Vice President, Mr. Speaker, Members of the Senate and House of Representatives:
Yesterday, December 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 facts of yesterday and the preceding days speak for themselves. 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 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.
But always will our whole nation 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 that 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 it very certain that this form of treachery shall never again endanger us.
Hostilities exist. There is no blinking at the fact 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, December 7, 1941, a state of war has existed between the United States and the Empire of Japan.
Analyzing the Rhetorical Power of the Speech
Roosevelt's masterful use of rhetoric in the "Day of Infamy" speech effectively galvanized American public opinion and secured Congressional support for entering World War II. Key elements include:
1. The Opening Line: "A Date Which Will Live in Infamy"
This iconic opening immediately establishes the gravity of the situation. The phrase is memorable, concise, and powerfully evokes a sense of historical significance.
2. Repetition and Enumeration:
The repeated phrase "Last night, Japanese forces attacked..." creates a powerful rhythm and emphasizes the scale and scope of the surprise attacks. This effective enumeration underlines the coordinated nature of the Japanese assault.
3. Emotional Appeal:
Roosevelt appeals to the emotions of the American people by highlighting the loss of American lives and the treacherous nature of the attack. Phrases like "severe damage" and "dastardly attack" evoke feelings of anger and outrage.
4. Call to Action:
The speech concludes with a clear and direct call to action: a declaration of war. Roosevelt frames this as fulfilling the will of the Congress and the people, thereby uniting the nation behind a common purpose.
5. Conciseness and Clarity:
Despite its impact, the speech is remarkably concise and to the point. This ensures its message resonates clearly and powerfully with the audience.
The Lasting Legacy of the "Day of Infamy" Speech
The "Day of Infamy" speech had a profound and lasting impact:
- Unified Public Opinion: The speech effectively rallied the American people behind the war effort, transforming public sentiment from isolationism to a determination to fight for freedom and democracy.
- Secured Congressional Approval: Congress overwhelmingly approved the declaration of war within hours of the speech, demonstrating the persuasive power of Roosevelt's rhetoric.
- Shaped American Identity: The speech helped solidify the American identity as a nation dedicated to defending its interests and values against aggression.
- Historical Significance: The speech remains a powerful reminder of the fragility of peace and the importance of vigilance against tyranny.
The "Day of Infamy" speech serves as a timeless example of effective political rhetoric and remains relevant in understanding the dynamics of international relations and the impact of effective leadership during times of crisis. Its legacy continues to resonate in American political discourse and beyond.
