Module 2: Pearl Harbor

Pearl Harbor and the Government Response 

The Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, marked a pivotal moment in American history, prompting a swift and decisive response from the U.S. government. In the immediate aftermath of the Pearl Harbor raid, President Franklin D. Roosevelt addressed the nation in a speech that would resonate for generations, famously declaring it "a date which will live in infamy." This powerful phrase captured the shock and outrage felt by the American public, as Roosevelt called for unity and resolve in the face of aggression. His speech not only informed citizens about the gravity of the situation but also rallied them behind the war effort.

In response to the attack, the U.S. government quickly mobilized its military and enacted measures to prepare for a full-scale war. One significant action was the reinforcement of the Selective Service Act, which had been previously enacted in 1940. This legislation allowed for the drafting of American men into military service, ensuring that the armed forces would have the necessary manpower to confront the Japanese threat and engage in the broader conflict of World War II. The government rapidly expanded recruitment efforts, leading to millions of Americans enlisting in the military, eager to defend their country.

Additionally, the Pearl Harbor raid spurred a wave of nationalistic fervor and solidarity among Americans, transcending ethnic and cultural divides. While the attack heightened tensions, especially toward Japanese Americans, it also catalyzed a unified response to the war effort, with industries converting to wartime production and civilians volunteering for various support roles. The U.S. government’s immediate and multifaceted response not only aimed to address the military crisis but also sought to bolster national morale, setting the stage for America's significant involvement in the war and shaping the nation's identity in the years that followed.