CANADA HISTORY - DOCUMENTS WAR

1941 F. D. Roosevelt To the Congress of the United States

Analysis of the Document - (The Document follows below the Analysis)

Franklin D. Roosevelt's address to the United States Congress on December 8, 1941, following the attack on Pearl Harbor, marked a significant turning point in American and global history. The speech, often referred to as the "Day of Infamy" speech, called for a declaration of war against Japan, bringing the United States fully into World War II. Its impact on Canada was immediate and profound, as Canada had already declared war on Japan just hours after the attack, aligning closely with its southern neighbor and ally.

Roosevelt's speech resonated with a global audience, especially within the Commonwealth, emphasizing the gravity of the moment and underscoring the unity of democratic nations against the Axis powers. For Canada, it reinforced the strong diplomatic and military ties between Canada and the U.S., which had already been formalized through joint defense agreements like the Ogdensburg Agreement of 1940. The speech also bolstered Canadian morale and support for the war effort, as Canadians had been involved in the conflict since 1939, when Canada declared war on Nazi Germany independently of Britain.

Canada's industrial contribution, particularly in the production of war materials, was already growing, but Roosevelt's speech accelerated the pace. The close cooperation between the two countries on military strategy and production, exemplified by the Hyde Park Agreement of 1941, was strengthened as the U.S. entered the war. Canadian factories produced arms, aircraft, and ships, and Canadian troops fought alongside American forces in several theaters of war, including in Europe and the Pacific.

The speech also highlighted the broader ideological battle between democracy and authoritarianism, a theme that resonated deeply in Canada. The shared commitment to fighting fascism and defending democratic values helped solidify Canada's identity as a middle power with a strong voice on the international stage. In the post-war world, this speech and the events surrounding it contributed to Canada’s active participation in the creation of the United Nations and the development of post-war institutions aimed at preventing future conflicts.

In conclusion, Roosevelt's 1941 address to Congress was not only a pivotal moment for the United States but also had far-reaching implications for Canada. It deepened military and economic ties, united North America in the global fight against fascism, and contributed to Canada's evolving role as a significant player in international diplomacy and defense during and after World War II.

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 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 Oahu, the Japanese Ambassador to the United States and his colleague delivered to the Secre- tary of State a form reply to a recent American message. While this reply stated that it seemed useless to continue the existing diplomatic negotia- tions, it contained no threat or hit of war or armed attack.

It will be recorded that the distance of Hawaii from Japan makes it ob- vious that the attack was deliberately planned many days or even weeks ago. During the intervening time the Japanese Government had 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 Midway Island.

Japan has, therefore, undertaken a surprise offensive extending through- out 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 our people, our territory, and our interests are in grave danger.

With confidence in our armed forces - with the unbounded 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 seventh, a state of war has existed between the United States and the Japanese Empire.

Franklin D. Roosevelt The White House, December 8, 1941