CondolencesAs World War II raged on Franklin D. Roosevelt’s health rapidly declined as he suffered f
CondolencesAs World War II raged on Franklin D. Roosevelt’s health rapidly declined as he suffered from coronary artery disease, congestive heart failure, high blood pressure, and angina. On April 12th, 1945 Roosevelt said, “I have a terrific pain in the back of my head” before suddenly slumping forward in his wheelchair. Roosevelt suffered a massive stroke resulting in a cerebral hemorrhage. The death of Roosevelt would be followed by a 30 day period of national mourning. Heads of state from all over the world took the time to express their condolences for the President’s death. One most unexpected expression of condolence came from Japan. At the time the Battle of Okinawa was raging, one of the most savage battles of the Pacific Theater, American bombers were incinerating hundreds of Japanese, Allied military leaders were drawing up plans for the invasion of Japan, and Japanese military leaders were planning the mass execution of POW’s. So it certainly came as a shock when Japanese Prime Minister Kantaro Suzuki spoke this message in an English language broadcast from radio Tokyo,“I must admit that Roosevelt’s leadership has been very effective and has been responsible for the Americans’ advantageous position today. For that reason I can easily understand the great loss his passing means to the American people and my profound sympathy goes to them.” -- source link
#history#wwii#fdr