Naval Historywith Dr. Alex

Q&A · 56:06-56:18

Why did Roosevelt not defend Kimmel?

Kimmel's earlier relationship with Roosevelt offered no protection once blaming the fleet commander helped shield the administration.

Command AccountabilityFranklin D. RooseveltHusband E. KimmelPearl HarborScapegoating
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Question

Why did Franklin Roosevelt not help Kimmel during the Pearl Harbor fallout?

Short answer

Kimmel was sacrificed because blaming him helped protect Roosevelt and the administration.

Notes

Kimmel was sacrificed to protect Franklin Roosevelt. Their earlier working relationship did not outweigh the political need to assign responsibility after Pearl Harbor. Concentrating blame on the local commanders reduced scrutiny of presidential decisions and failures in Washington. Personal access or past service does not necessarily protect an officer when national accountability is at stake.