75 Years After Pearl Harbor: Lessons From WW2 That Show the Goodness of America

December 07, 2016

Writer

Generations of American children have been taught how their government and military dropped two devastating bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki in 1945. So profound was the devastation that Japan’s Emperor Hirohito announced his country’s unconditional surrender in World War II, citing the power of a new and most cruel bomb. The atomic bomb was America's response to Japan's unprecedented attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, where 2,403 people died and nearly 2,000 more were wounded.

Wednesday on The Glenn Beck Program, Glenn displayed two flyers from that era, teaching a lesson that most Americans have likely never heard: The US military warned Japanese citizens in advance of dropping the bombs, allowing them time to escape and save their families.

"Here is a map of the American forces coming in and bombing these industrial areas. This one says, Men, women, and children, leave the industrial regions because they are going to be bombed. The allies are not interested in bombing you and the people," Glenn described.

Another flyer specifically warned about a single bomb more powerful than all of the bombs dropped during World War II.

"So we're telling them, not that we have the nuclear bomb, but we have a weapon beyond description and we're going to drop it on one of these 22 industrial cities," Glenn said.

The flyer, written in Japanese, goes on to advise people to bring with them food and water since they would be in scarce supply.

"Now, why aren't we ever taught that?" Glenn asked.

The truth about America's inherent goodness doesn't suit the political agenda of the progressive left, so generations of Americans have been denied it --- but the truth brings hope.

"Today, on December 7th, let’s commit ourselves to being people of good will," Glenn said.

Below is a rush transcript of this segment, it might contain errors:

GLENN: Today is the 75th anniversary of Pearl Harbor. And before we leave, remind me, Stu -- or, Pat, we have to find the song -- it's not Remember Pearl Harbor. Maybe it is Remember Pearl Harbor. There's a couple of songs out there. One of them is so politically incorrect, it's outrageous.

JEFFY: I think it is that Remember...

GLENN: Yeah, that's not quite so politically outrageous.

But they both came out in the 1940s and right after Pearl Harbor. And one of them was like, "We're going to sock that Jap in the eye until we basically slaughter every one of them." And that's the America that we have been painted as. And it's really easy to paint an enemy and say, "We've got to kill all of them. But that's not who we really are.

Today, as we look at Pearl Harbor, this -- I think it's this flag -- this flag -- this is from the Vault. This flag was taken, I think so -- I think it's this one. It's either this one or that one. This flag was taken from the island when we took the -- I don't remember what island it was. But the island where we had to land the nuclear bombs. And they had an airstrip on that island. And we couldn't have bombed Hiroshima and Nagasaki without stopping for fuel and loading the bomb there because it was so heavy.

We actually had to take the runway and dig a giant pit in the center and drop those bombs down into a pit because we couldn't get them underneath the plane. You'd have to jack the whole plane up, to wheel it in and then -- and then, you know, put it in.

It's quite a big deal. Before we went and bombed Pearl Harbor -- the reason why we bombed Pearl Harbor, Truman said he felt as though the sun, the moon, and the stars were cast on his shoulders.

Imagine the weight of taking the presidency in World War II and having to decide whether to drop the atomic bomb.

We are taught now in school that America is evil and we are not people of good will. Et cetera, et cetera. But I want to show the evidence that that is not who we are.

I cannot, unfortunately, read these. But this one -- yes. Here. This one has -- translation. Here you see a picture -- we put, I think, 7 million of these pamphlets -- I've never seen these before. I've never read about these before. 7 million of these pamphlets. And we have several of them, all different.

JEFFY: Remember when we first heard that we did that. No one knew that we did that. On this show.

GLENN: No one knows -- yeah.

JEFFY: I was like, "What!"

GLENN: Yeah, I know.

And we have the evidence now in The Vault. And next year, I'm going to start raising money to build Independence USA, the museum. But -- because these things have to be taught.

Here's a picture of a Japanese family. And you'll see they've got all their bags. And they're looking behind them, and they're leaving. And they're leaving an industrial area.

Here is a map of the American forces coming in and bombing these industrial areas. This one says, "Men, women, and children, leave the industrial regions because they are going to be bombed. The allies are not interested in bombing you and the people."

We have another one that specifically says we have a bomb that will be more than all of the bombs dropped in World War II, combined, in one bomb.

So we're telling them -- not that we have the nuclear bomb -- but we have a weapon beyond description, and we're going to drop it on one of these 22 industrial cities.

If you are in -- Nagasaki and Hiroshima are on that list. If you are in one of those cities, you must leave now because we have no intention of killing people and your families. Please get out now.

It goes on to say, "You should bring with you food and water because it will be hard to come by."

Now, why aren't we ever taught that?

JEFFY: I don't know.

GLENN: We're not taught that because of political agendas. It is clear -- the evidence is there. You just have to look for it. You have to know that it's there because now, it's so forgotten.

PAT: We did the same thing -- I mean, we've always done this kind of stuff. We did the same thing in Afghanistan. We throw bombs, and we drop food.

GLENN: May I suggest to you that when I told this story to some guys who were like just off their tour of duty -- we're still doing this.

PAT: Uh-huh.

GLENN: We're still dropping pamphlets and saying, "We're going to bomb here."

JEFFY: Yep.

PAT: Yeah.

GLENN: So if you want peace, real peace, how come this peace with the Japanese, who were taught to hate us, they were taught to hate us -- when the emperor actually said, "No, I'm -- or said, "Yes, I will sign your peace treaty," do you know why we -- we still bombed them, up to the signing of the peace treaty?"

We still launched planes to bomb, but we were -- and we were bombing people, up until that ink was dry. Then we called it off. Do you know why?

Because the emperor said to us, "We're not sure that the people will stop fighting." Why?

This is one of the imperial swords. And I don't know if I can get this one out. This is one of the imperial swords from Japan, used in World War II.

This sword is just like many that were used to hold contests of prisoners. They would take two people and line up 100 people on the chopping block. And two soldiers with a sword like this -- the one who could chop the most heads off in two minutes would win.

They had contests of throw the babies up, and the one who can catch the most babies on to their sword wins.

PAT: Ooh.

GLENN: They had a project that was worse -- think of this -- than what Mengele was doing, and we don't know about it.

And so when the emperor said, "We're not sure they'll quit," it's because the emperor had said, "If you think we're bad, the Americans will do worse to their captive populations."

We dropped these things -- they didn't believe us because of the propaganda that they had gotten. They couldn't believe that we were good people. We went there and we proved to them -- without any kind of desire for retribution or to win, we wanted to reconcile.

And because we proved that we are not those people, they reconciled with us. And Japan is still one of our greatest friends and allies.

December 7th, we had to stand on what was true in 1941. But I believe it was in August of '45 that we could show the Japanese people, "This is what's true." And there will be peace on earth for men of good will.

Today, on December 7th, let's commit ourselves to being people of good will.

Featured Image: The Glenn Beck Program, December 7, 2016

The Woodrow Wilson strategy to get out of Mother’s Day

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I’ve got a potentially helpful revelation that’s gonna blow the lid off your plans for this Sunday. It’s Mother’s Day.

Yeah, that sacred day where you’re guilt-tripped into buying flowers, braving crowded brunch buffets, and pretending you didn’t forget to mail the card. But what if I told you… you don’t have to do it? That’s right, there’s a loophole, a get-out-of-Mother’s-Day-free card, and it’s stamped with the name of none other than… Woodrow Wilson (I hate that guy).

Back in 1914, ol’ Woody Wilson signed a proclamation that officially made Mother’s Day a national holiday. Second Sunday in May, every year. He said it was a day to “publicly express our love and reverence for the mothers of our country.” Sounds sweet, right? Until you peel back the curtain.

See, Wilson wasn’t some sentimental guy sitting around knitting doilies for his mom. No, no, no. This was a calculated move.

The idea for Mother’s Day had been floating around for decades, pushed by influential voices like Julia Ward Howe. By 1911, states were jumping on the bandwagon, but it took Wilson to make it federal. Why? Because he was a master of optics. This guy loved big, symbolic gestures to distract from the real stuff he was up to, like, oh, I don’t know, reshaping the entire federal government!

So here’s the deal: if you’re looking for an excuse to skip Mother’s Day, just lean into this. Say, “Sorry, Mom, I’m not celebrating a holiday cooked up by Woodrow Wilson!” I mean, think about it – this is the guy who gave us the Federal Reserve, the income tax, and don’t even get me started on his assault on basic liberties during World War I. You wanna trust THAT guy with your Sunday plans? I don’t think so! You tell your mom, “Look, I love you, but I’m not observing a Progressive holiday. I’m keeping my brunch money in protest.”

Now, I know what you might be thinking.

“Glenn, my mom’s gonna kill me if I try this.” Fair point. Moms can be scary. But hear me out: you can spin this. Tell her you’re honoring her EVERY DAY instead of some government-mandated holiday. You don’t need Wilson’s permission to love your mom! You can bake her a cake in June, call her in July, or, here’s a wild idea, visit her WITHOUT a Woodrow Wilson federal proclamation guilting you into it.

Silent genocide exposed: Are christians being wiped out in 2025?

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Is a Christian Genocide unfolding overseas?

Recent reports suggest an alarming escalation in violence against Christians, raising questions about whether these acts constitute genocide under international law. Recently, Glenn hosted former U.S. Army Special Forces Sniper Tim Kennedy, who discussed a predictive model that forecasts a surge in global Christian persecution for the summer of 2025.

From Africa to Asia and the Middle East, extreme actions—some described as genocidal—have intensified over the past year. Over 380 million Christians worldwide face high levels of persecution, a number that continues to climb. With rising international concern, the United Nations and human rights groups are urging protective measures by the global community. Is a Christian genocide being waged in the far corners of the globe? Where are they taking place, and what is being done?

India: Hindu Extremist Violence Escalates

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In India, attacks on Christians have surged as Hindu extremist groups gain influence within the country. In February 2025, Hindu nationalist leader Aadesh Soni organized a 50,000-person rally in Chhattisgarh, where he called for the rape and murder of all Christians in nearby villages and demanded the execution of Christian leaders to erase Christianity. Other incidents include forced conversions, such as a June 2024 attack in Chhattisgarh, where a Hindu mob gave Christian families a 10-day ultimatum to convert to Hinduism. In December 2024, a Christian man in Uttar Pradesh was attacked, forcibly converted, and paraded while the mob chanted "Death to Jesus."

The United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) recommends designating India a "Country of Particular Concern" and imposing targeted sanctions on those perpetrating these attacks. The international community is increasingly alarmed by the rising tide of religious violence in India.

Syria: Sectarian Violence Post-Regime Change

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Following the collapse of the Assad regime in December 2024, Syria has seen a wave of sectarian violence targeting religious minorities, including Christians, with over 1,000 killed in early 2025. It remains unclear whether Christians are deliberately targeted or caught in broader conflicts, but many fear persecution by the new regime or extremist groups. Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), a dominant rebel group and known al-Qaeda splinter group now in power, is known for anti-Christian sentiments, heightening fears of increased persecution.

Christians, especially converts from Islam, face severe risks in the unstable post-regime environment. The international community is calling for humanitarian aid and protection for Syria’s vulnerable minority communities.

Democratic Republic of Congo: A "Silent Genocide"

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In February 2025, the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), an ISIS-affiliated group, beheaded 70 Christians—men, women, and children—in a Protestant church in North Kivu, Democratic Republic of Congo, after tying their hands. This horrific massacre, described as a "silent genocide" reminiscent of the 1994 Rwandan genocide, has shocked the global community.

Since 1996, the ADF and other militias have killed over six million people, with Christians frequently targeted. A Christmas 2024 attack killed 46, further decimating churches in the region. With violence escalating, humanitarian organizations are urging immediate international intervention to address the crisis.

POLL: Starbase exposed: Musk’s vision or corporate takeover?

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Is Starbase the future of innovation or a step too far?

Elon Musk’s ambitious Starbase project in South Texas is reshaping Boca Chica into a cutting-edge hub for SpaceX’s Starship program, promising thousands of jobs and a leap toward Mars colonization. Supporters see Musk as a visionary, driving economic growth and innovation in a historically underserved region. However, local critics, including Brownsville residents and activists, argue that SpaceX’s presence raises rents, restricts beach access, and threatens environmental harm, with Starbase’s potential incorporation as a city sparking fears of unchecked corporate control. As pro-Musk advocates clash with anti-Musk skeptics, will Starbase unite the community or deepen the divide?

Let us know what you think in the poll below:

Is Starbase’s development a big win for South Texas?

Should Starbase become its own city?

Is Elon Musk’s vision more of a benefit than a burden for the region?

Shocking truth behind Trump-Zelenskyy mineral deal unveiled

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President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy have finalized a landmark agreement that will shape the future of U.S.-Ukraine relations. The agreement focuses on mineral access and war recovery.

After a tense March meeting, Trump and Zelenskyy signed a deal on Wednesday, April 30, 2025, granting the U.S. preferential mineral rights in Ukraine in exchange for continued military support. Glenn analyzed an earlier version of the agreement in March, when Zelenskyy rejected it, highlighting its potential benefits for America, Ukraine, and Europe. Glenn praised the deal’s strategic alignment with U.S. interests, including reducing reliance on China for critical minerals and fostering regional peace.

However, the agreement signed this week differs from the March proposal Glenn praised. Negotiations led to significant revisions, reflecting compromises on both sides. What changes were made? What did each leader seek, and what did they achieve? How will this deal impact the future of U.S.-Ukraine relations and global geopolitics? Below, we break down the key aspects of the agreement.

What did Trump want?

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Trump aimed to curb what many perceive as Ukraine’s overreliance on U.S. aid while securing strategic advantages for America. His primary goals included obtaining reimbursement for the billions in military aid provided to Ukraine, gaining exclusive access to Ukraine’s valuable minerals (such as titanium, uranium, and lithium), and reducing Western dependence on China for critical resources. These minerals are essential for aerospace, energy, and technology sectors, and Trump saw their acquisition as a way to bolster U.S. national security and economic competitiveness. Additionally, he sought to advance peace talks to end the Russia-Ukraine war, positioning the U.S. as a key mediator.

Ultimately, Trump secured preferential—but not exclusive—rights to extract Ukraine’s minerals through the United States-Ukraine Reconstruction Investment Fund, as outlined in the agreement. The U.S. will not receive reimbursement for past aid, but future military contributions will count toward the joint fund, designed to support Ukraine’s post-war recovery. Zelenskyy’s commitment to peace negotiations under U.S. leadership aligns with Trump’s goal of resolving the conflict, giving him leverage in discussions with Russia.

These outcomes partially meet Trump’s objectives. The preferential mineral rights strengthen U.S. access to critical resources, but the lack of exclusivity and reimbursement limits the deal’s financial benefits. The peace commitment, however, positions Trump as a central figure in shaping the war’s resolution, potentially enhancing his diplomatic influence.

What did Zelenskyy want?

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Zelenskyy sought to sustain U.S. military and economic support without the burden of repaying past aid, which has been critical for Ukraine’s defense against Russia. He also prioritized reconstruction funds to rebuild Ukraine’s war-torn economy and infrastructure. Security guarantees from the U.S. to deter future Russian aggression were a key demand, though controversial, as they risked entangling America in long-term commitments. Additionally, Zelenskyy aimed to retain control over Ukraine’s mineral wealth to safeguard national sovereignty and align with the country’s European Union membership aspirations.

The final deal delivered several of Zelenskyy’s priorities. The reconstruction fund, supported by future U.S. aid, provides a financial lifeline for Ukraine’s recovery without requiring repayment of past assistance. Ukraine retained ownership of its subsoil and decision-making authority over mineral extraction, granting only preferential access to the U.S. However, Zelenskyy conceded on security guarantees, a significant compromise, and agreed to pursue peace talks under Trump’s leadership, which may involve territorial or political concessions to Russia.

Zelenskyy’s outcomes reflect a delicate balance. The reconstruction fund and retained mineral control bolster Ukraine’s economic and sovereign interests, but the absence of security guarantees and pressure to negotiate peace could strain domestic support and challenge Ukraine’s long-term stability.

What does this mean for the future?

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While Trump didn’t secure all his demands, the deal advances several of his broader strategic goals. By gaining access to Ukraine’s mineral riches, the U.S. undermines China’s dominance over critical elements like lithium and graphite, essential for technology and energy industries. This shift reduces American and European dependence on Chinese supply chains, strengthening Western industrial and tech sectors. Most significantly, the agreement marks a pivotal step toward peace in Europe. Ending the Russia-Ukraine war, which has claimed thousands of lives, is a top priority for Trump, and Zelenskyy’s commitment to U.S.-led peace talks enhances Trump’s leverage in negotiations with Russia. Notably, the deal avoids binding U.S. commitments to Ukraine’s long-term defense, preserving flexibility for future administrations.

The deal’s broader implications align with the vision Glenn outlined in March, when he praised its potential to benefit America, Ukraine, and Europe by securing resources and creating peace. While the final agreement differs from Glenn's hopes, it still achieves key goals he outlined.

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