Answer:
On December 7, 1941, President Franklin D. Roosevelt addressed Congress and the nation following the surprise attack on Pearl Harbor by the Japanese. His speech, now known as the "Day of Infamy" speech, is considered one of the most significant speeches in American history. Roosevelt's purpose in delivering the speech was to rally the American people and to request a declaration of war against Japan. His point of view was that of a leader who was determined to defend the United States against its enemies.
Roosevelt's reasoning was clear and logical. He presented a detailed account of the events leading up to the attack and highlighted the severity of the situation. He emphasized the unprovoked and deliberate nature of the attack, stating that "No matter how long it may take us to overcome this premeditated invasion, the American people in their righteous might will win through to absolute victory." He used strong and emotive language to appeal to the American people's sense of patriotism and duty, urging them to join the war effort.
Roosevelt's use of rhetoric was masterful. He employed repetition, parallelism, and vivid imagery to create a sense of urgency and to emphasize key points. For example, he repeated the phrase "a date which will live in infamy" to describe the attack on Pearl Harbor, which was a powerful rhetorical device that helped to cement the attack's significance in the American consciousness. He also used parallelism in phrases such as "hostilities exist" and "last night Japanese forces attacked," which helped to reinforce the idea that the United States was under attack and needed to respond.
The tone of Roosevelt's speech was serious, determined, and resolute. He used a formal and measured tone to convey the gravity of the situation, but also a passionate and emotional tone to appeal to the American people's sense of duty and honor. He expressed empathy and solidarity with the victims of the attack and their families, stating that "The people of the United States have already formed their opinions and well understand the implications to the very life and safety of our nation."
Overall, Roosevelt's speech was a masterful example of effective communication. He employed powerful rhetorical devices, a clear and logical structure, and a tone that was both serious and passionate. By linking ideas such as the severity of the attack, the need for a united response, and the American people's duty to defend their country, Roosevelt successfully rallied the American people and secured the declaration of war that he sought. The speech remains a testament to Roosevelt's leadership and his exceptional communication skills.
Step-by-step explanation: