“Yesterday, December seventh, 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. We will gain the inevitable triumph, so help us God.”
- January 30, 1882 – April 12, 1945
- American
- Politician
- [Achievements]
- As president of the United States, he promoted economic recovery from the Great Depression with the New Deal policy
- He led the Allied powers to victory in World War II
- [Criticism]
- His hard-line policy toward Japan triggered the attack on Pearl Harbor
- He pushed for the forced internment policy of Japanese Americans due to racist feelings toward the Japanese
- He promoted the Manhattan Project, a plan to develop the atomic bomb
Quote
“Yesterday, December seventh, 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. We will gain the inevitable triumph, so help us God.”
Explanation
This quote comes from Franklin D. Roosevelt’s speech delivered on December 8, 1941, the day after the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor. The phrase “a date which will live in infamy” is one of the most famous lines in American history, used to mark the shocking and unprovoked assault that led the United States to formally enter World War II. Roosevelt’s words emphasized the surprise and deliberateness of the attack, which killed over 2,400 Americans and damaged much of the Pacific fleet. Roosevelt’s strong rhetoric served to rally the American public and frame the attack as an attack on American sovereignty that required a forceful response.
In the broader historical context, the speech marked a pivotal moment in global history, shifting the United States from a policy of isolationism to active involvement in World War II. Roosevelt’s reference to “inevitable triumph” was a call for national unity and resilience, reinforcing the belief that despite the losses, the U.S. would ultimately prevail. This statement also underlined the moral clarity of the conflict, positioning the United States against the aggressive expansionism of Axis powers like Japan, Germany, and Italy.
In modern times, this speech continues to resonate as a reminder of the unpredictability of global conflict and the resolve needed in times of national crisis. The events of 9/11 and other acts of terrorism have invoked similar calls for unity and resilience in the face of unexpected attacks. Roosevelt’s words also serve as a historical lesson on the power of leadership and clear communication during moments of national tragedy, inspiring citizens to face adversity with strength and determination.
