Day Of Infamy Rhetorical Analysis

Franklin D. Roosevelt’s address to Congress on December 8th, 1941, on the morning of the attack on Pearl Harbor, stands as a pivotal moment in American history. Through a masterful use of rhetoric, Roosevelt not only inspired a nation but also set the United States on a path toward a decisive role in World War II. The speech, famously branding the attack as a “Day of Infamy,” showcased Roosevelt’s skillful manipulation of language and emotion to unify the American people. By examining the historical context, rhetorical strategies, and the resultant mobilization of public opinion and resources, one gains insight into how Roosevelt’s words transcended mere speech to become a historical event in their own right, leaving a lasting legacy on the

history. The United States was thrown into World War II by Japan’s decision to attack Pearl Harbor, demanding a decisive response from the nation’s leadership. As the president of the United States, Roosevelt utilized multiple rhetorical strategies in order to gain public support for war and create a vision of not only a resolved America but one that could face adversity. Roosevelt opens his speech with a striking statement: “Yesterday, December 7th, 1941 - a date which will live in infamy.” This anaphora emphasizes the immediacy and significance of the events, framing the attack to be seen as an act of infamy and rallying the nation to back the cause of defending freedom and democracy. Throughout the speech, Roosevelt uses rhetorical appeals to ethos, logos, and pathos to persuade his audience and generate an emotional response. He appeals to ethos by emphasizing his position as president, assuring citizens that their government is taking the proper steps to defend their nation. The speaker appeals to pathos by bringing attention to the lives lost in the attack from Japan, expressing mourning for the families who lost loved ones, all while creating a sense of national unity and agreement in the face of