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.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- The attack on Pearl Harbor was a sudden betrayal that brought the US into war.
- In plain terms
- Japan attacked the US while we were talking peace.
- What can you take from it?
- Sudden aggression can end peace talks instantly.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- How does war begin?
- Can peace survive surprise?
Another view
Context about Japan's strategic needs is missing from this text.
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