LAD #34: FDR's Declaration of War

Following Japan's attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7th, 1941, President Roosevelt issued an address to Congress, asking to declare war on Japan. Naming the day of the attack as a "day that will live in infamy," FDR had confidence in the army and America's power. He also urged Congress to think about the potential consequences involved with letting Japan go unpunished for their actions. According to FDR, the facts of Japan's attacks spoke volumes--there was no denying that Japan broke any notion of peace that existed between America and Japan. When he asked for a declaration of war, FDR was trying to ensure American interests and protect the country. This action brought America into the Second World War, a war that may not have been won by the Allies without American aid.