Pearl Harbor
Background
Pearl Harbor is a United States Naval Base located on the island of Oahu, Hawaii. It is best known for the attack that took place on December 7, 1941, which led to the United States' entry into World War II.
Pre-World War II
Pearl Harbor was acquired by the United States in 1887 and was developed into a naval base in the early 20th century. The harbor's strategic location in the Pacific Ocean made it a vital outpost for the U.S. Navy.
Attack on Pearl Harbor
On the morning of December 7, 1941, the Imperial Japanese Navy launched a surprise military strike against the United States naval base at Pearl Harbor. The attack was intended as a preventive action to stop the U.S. Pacific Fleet from interfering with Japan's planned military actions in Southeast Asia against the territories of the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, and the United States.
Aftermath and Impact
The attack on Pearl Harbor was a significant turning point in history. It led to the United States' entry into World War II and marked the beginning of a prolonged war in the Pacific. The attack also led to significant changes in U.S. military strategy and foreign policy.
Legacy
Today, Pearl Harbor is a national historic landmark and home to several memorials, including the USS Arizona Memorial, which commemorates the sailors and Marines killed during the attack.