Meaning: On December 7th, 1941, President Franklin D. Roosevelt delivered a speech to Congress in response to the surprise attack on Pearl Harbor by the naval and air forces of the Empire of Japan. The opening line of his speech, "Yesterday, December seventh, 1941, a date which will live in infamy," has become one of the most iconic quotes in American history. This quote signifies the profound impact and lasting significance of the attack on Pearl Harbor, which led to the United States' entry into World War II.

In his speech, President Roosevelt sought to rally the American people and Congress to declare war on Japan in response to the unprovoked attack. The use of the phrase "a date which will live in infamy" emphasizes the gravity of the event and conveys the enduring impact it would have on the nation. The word "infamy" carries a strong sense of disgrace and dishonor, highlighting the betrayal felt by the American people in the aftermath of the attack.

President Roosevelt's speech effectively captured the shock and outrage felt across the country, as well as the determination to respond decisively to the aggression of the Empire of Japan. By declaring the attack as an act of war, Roosevelt set the stage for the United States to fully engage in the global conflict, shaping the course of history for years to come.

The speech itself marked a pivotal moment in American history, as it propelled the nation into a world war that would ultimately lead to significant geopolitical shifts and the emergence of the United States as a superpower. The aftermath of Pearl Harbor and the subsequent war effort had profound and far-reaching effects on the economy, society, and international relations.

President Roosevelt's address to Congress not only galvanized the nation for war but also solidified his leadership during a time of crisis. His eloquent and resolute delivery of the speech resonated with the American people, instilling a sense of resolve and unity in the face of adversity.

The quote "a date which will live in infamy" has since become synonymous with the memory of Pearl Harbor and serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by the men and women who served in World War II. It has been etched into the collective memory of the nation and is often invoked to honor the memory of those who lost their lives on that fateful day.

In conclusion, President Franklin D. Roosevelt's iconic quote from his speech to Congress on December 7th, 1941, encapsulates the enduring significance of the Pearl Harbor attack and the subsequent entry of the United States into World War II. The quote serves as a poignant reminder of a pivotal moment in history and the profound impact it had on the nation and the world.