Attack on Pearl Harbor

Introduction

• Date: December 7th, 1941
• Significance: Led to U.S. entry into World War II
• Context: Result of two decades of friction between the U.S. and Japan

Background

• Japanese Expansion:
  • Japan sought to expand its territory, leading to increased tensions with Western countries (U.S., France, Britain)
  • 1937: Japan attacked China, demonstrating military prowess
• Tripartite Pact:
  • Signed on September 27th, 1940
  • Formed Axis Powers with Nazi Germany and Fascist Italy
  • Direct threat to the U.S.
• U.S. Response:
  • Prepared for war but remained neutral
  • Imposed bans on exports to Japan (oil, raw materials) and restricted shipping lanes
  • Demanded Japan leave China

Lead-up to Attack

• Stalled Negotiations:
  • Japan refused U.S. demands, approved war against U.S., Great Britain, Holland on December 1st, 1941
• Objective of Attack:
  • Neutralize U.S. Pacific Fleet at Pearl Harbor
  • Enable Japan to control Southeast Asia and diminish U.S. morale

The Attack

• Surprise Element:
  • Attack commenced before formal declaration of war
  • Americans were unprepared
• Execution:
  • Two waves of attack from air and water
  • First wave started just before 8am, second wave an hour later
• Impact:
  • Lasted two hours
  • Significant damage to American planes and military crafts
  • Two battleships destroyed: USS Oklahoma and USS Arizona (Arizona remains a memorial)

Casualties and Aftermath

• Death Toll:
  • Over 2,300 deaths (military and civilians)
• U.S. Entry into WWII:
  • Officially entered the war the next day
  • Turning point in World War II
• Conclusion:
  • American determination for victory emphasized

References

• Subtitles by Amara.org community