“Last Secrets of the Outbreak of War between Japan and the United States: DevelopingRoosevelt’s Final Telegram to the Emperor of Japan”
Abstract
“Last Secrets of the Outbreak of War between Japan and the United States:Developing Roosevelt’s Final Telegram to the Emperor of Japan”
By Prof. SUGIHARA Seishiro
[Abstract]
The personal telegram from President Roosevelt to Emperor Hirohito, dated December 6, 1941,
has been previously seen as Roosevelt’s final attempt to avoid war between Japan and the United
States. Sugihara argues, however, that this historical document was not the simple message it
appeared to be, and draws parallels with Roosevelt’s messages to Hitler and Mussolini. Who were
behind the development of the Roosevelt’s message, and how was the final draft developed? Why
did Roosevelt want this particular version to be sent, what was the significance of its timing, and
what were other alternative policy options available to him?