Note: This is an encore post from 2011.

Dec. 8, 1941: The Times interviewed average Angelenos (if there is such a thing) for their opinions about the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor. Many, like Horace Goodrich, thought the U.S. would wrap up the war in a few weeks. J.H. Allen was the only one with a contrasting view: “From what I gather, the Japanese must be well prepared. If they are, then we’re in for a long battle.”