LAD #34: FDR's Declaration of War

     FDR begins the war declaration by mentioning the attack on Pearl Harbor on "December 7th 1941, a date that will live in infamy."  He then explains that prior to this attack, the United States had been at peace with Japan.  FDR makes it clear that the attack was no accident, especially considering the distance between Japan and Hawaii, it must have been planned days, or even weeks in advance.  He acknowledges that the bombardment of Pearl Harbor cause severe damage to military and naval forces on the island, and caused many American lives to be lost.  By attacking the United States, Japan had disturbed the peace existing between the two nations.  FDR therefore appealed to Congress for a declaration of war, the only thing which could justify the damage done on American soil.  FDR's request led to U.S. involvement in World War one and ultimately an allied victory.