Question

Read the excerpt from the speech “Pearl Harbor Address to the Nation” by President Roosevelt and answer the question that follows.
Mr. Vice President, Mr. Speaker, Members of the Senate, and of the House of Representatives:

Yesterday, December 7th, 1941—a date which will live in infamy—the United States of America was suddenly and deliberately attacked by naval and air forces of the Empire of Japan. The United States was at peace with that nation and, at the solicitation of Japan, was still in conversation with its government and its emperor looking toward the maintenance of peace in the Pacific. . . .

The attack yesterday on the Hawaiian islands has caused severe damage to American naval and military forces. I regret to tell you that very many American lives have been lost. . . . Yesterday, the Japanese government also launched an attack against Malaya. Last night, Japanese forces attacked Hong Kong. Last night, Japanese forces attacked Guam. Last night, Japanese forces attacked the Philippine Islands. Last night, the Japanese attacked Wake Island. And this morning, the Japanese attacked Midway Island. Japan has, therefore, undertaken a surprise offensive extending throughout the Pacific area. . . .

As commander in chief of the Army and Navy, I have directed that all measures be taken for our defense. But always will our whole nation remember the character of the onslaught against us. 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.

I believe that I interpret the will of the Congress and of the people when I assert that we will not only defend ourselves to the uttermost, but will make it very certain that this form of treachery shall never again endanger us. . . . I ask that the Congress declare that since the unprovoked and dastardly attack by Japan on Sunday, December 7th, 1941, a state of war has existed between the United States and the Japanese empire.

Which of the following options correctly identifies BOTH the thesis of the speech and an essential detail that supports the thesis?

A.
thesis: Japan attacked the United States without warning.
detail: The attack caused severe damages and loss of life.
B.
thesis: Japan is an evil country and should be punished.
detail: Japan attacked Guam and the Midway Islands.
C.
thesis: Japan asked for negotiations with us, but the attempts failed.
detail: Many American lives have been lost.
D.
thesis: Japan launched an unprovoked attack, so we must declare war.
detail: The US and Japan were in peaceful negotiations.

Answer 1

Assuming C.  65% sure about this answer.

Hope I helped. 

Answer 2

I think that the answer is A