Pearl Harbor

Definition

Pearl Harbor refers to the U.S. naval base located on the island of Oahu, Hawaii, which was attacked by the Japanese on December 7, 1941. This surprise military strike led to significant loss of life and equipment and marked a pivotal moment in World War II, as it prompted the United States to formally enter the conflict and shift the global balance of power.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The attack on Pearl Harbor resulted in the deaths of over 2,400 American servicemen and civilians, along with the destruction of numerous ships and aircraft.
2. The event led President Franklin D. Roosevelt to declare December 7, 1941, as 'a date which will live in infamy,' marking it as a turning point in American history.
3. Prior to Pearl Harbor, the U.S. had maintained a policy of isolationism, avoiding direct involvement in World War II until this event changed public sentiment.
4. In response to the attack, Congress declared war on Japan on December 8, 1941, which led to the U.S. mobilizing its military and entering World War II on the side of the Allies.
5. The attack on Pearl Harbor galvanized American public opinion against Japan and resulted in widespread support for military action.

Review Questions

• How did the attack on Pearl Harbor alter American public opinion about entering World War II?
  • Before Pearl Harbor, many Americans favored isolationism and were reluctant to engage in overseas conflicts. The surprise attack on December 7, 1941, dramatically shifted public sentiment as it exposed the vulnerability of the United States and intensified fears about Japanese aggression. This event united Americans against a common enemy and led to overwhelming support for entering World War II.
• Evaluate the impact of Pearl Harbor on U.S. foreign policy following World War II.
  • The attack on Pearl Harbor significantly shifted U.S. foreign policy from isolationism to a more interventionist approach. After entering World War II, America emerged as a global superpower with an increased commitment to international engagement. This shift laid the groundwork for future foreign policies focused on containment during the Cold War and an active role in global affairs.
• Analyze how Pearl Harbor serves as a historical example of intelligence failures and their consequences in military strategy.
  • Pearl Harbor exemplifies significant intelligence failures, as there were multiple warnings about a possible Japanese attack that went unheeded. The lack of coordination among U.S. military branches contributed to the success of the surprise attack. This event has since influenced military strategies regarding intelligence gathering and response protocols, emphasizing the importance of preparedness against potential threats to national security.

Related terms

World War II:

A global conflict that lasted from 1939 to 1945, involving most of the world's nations and resulting in significant geopolitical changes.

Japanese Imperialism: The policy of Japan from the late 19th to early 20th centuries, aiming to expand its influence and territory across East Asia and the Pacific.

U.S. Isolationism: The foreign policy stance adopted by the United States in the interwar period, characterized by a reluctance to engage in international conflicts and alliances.