Robert Stinnett

Robert Stinnett (1924-2018) was an American journalist, author and World War II veteran best known for his controversial book "Day of Deceit: The Truth About FDR and Pearl Harbor" published in 2000. During World War II, Stinnett served in the U.S. Navy alongside George H.W. Bush, earning ten battle stars and a Presidential Unit Citation. After the war, he worked as a journalist and photographer for the Oakland Tribune, where he remained for 35 years. His research into Pearl Harbor began in 1986 after he learned of the Freedom of Information Act. Through numerous FOIA requests, Stinnett accumulated thousands of previously classified documents about the attack, which formed the basis of his most significant work. "Day of Deceit" presented the argument that President Franklin D. Roosevelt had advance knowledge of Japan's attack on Pearl Harbor and deliberately withheld this information to draw the United States into World War II. While the book generated significant debate among historians, many mainstream scholars have disputed Stinnett's conclusions and methodology.

Readers view Stinnett as a controversial historical researcher, particularly regarding his book "Day of Deceit" about Pearl Harbor. Readers appreciate: - Extensive primary source research and FOIA document analysis - Clear presentation of evidence - Detailed naval operational information - Specific radio intercept data and timeline construction Common criticisms: - Cherry-picking evidence to fit predetermined conclusions - Misinterpreting or overextending documentation - Confirmation bias in analysis - Lack of broader historical context Amazon ratings average 4.3/5 from 1,200+ reviews for "Day of Deceit" Goodreads shows 4.1/5 from 900+ ratings Review comments range from "meticulously researched exposé backed by primary sources" to "conspiracy theory that ignores contradicting evidence." Multiple readers note the book changed their view of Pearl Harbor, while others say Stinnett makes "unsupported leaps" in his conclusions. Military history readers particularly debate his interpretation of naval intelligence procedures and radio intercept capabilities of the 1940s.

Day of Deceit: The Truth About FDR and Pearl Harbor (2000) Based on declassified documents obtained through FOIA requests, this book presents evidence and arguments suggesting that President Roosevelt had advance knowledge of the Pearl Harbor attack.

John Toland A Pulitzer Prize-winning author who wrote extensively about World War II and Japan, including "Infamy" which also examined Pearl Harbor controversies. His work combines deep archival research with interviews of key historical figures.

James Bradley Author of "Flyboys" and "Flags of Our Fathers" who focuses on Pacific theater operations during World War II. His research methods parallel Stinnett's approach of using declassified documents and veteran interviews.

Gordon Prange Chief historian on General MacArthur's staff who wrote "At Dawn We Slept: The Untold Story of Pearl Harbor." His work represents decades of research into Japanese and American military archives.

Stanley Weintraub Military historian who specialized in writing about pivotal moments in World War II through examination of primary sources. His work "Long Day's Journey Into War" provides a detailed account of December 7, 1941, using similar documentary evidence methods.

Bruce Lee Author of "Pearl Harbor: Final Judgement" who based his research on declassified documents and intelligence reports. His investigative approach to military history mirrors Stinnett's focus on uncovering hidden aspects of Pearl Harbor.