Pearl Harbor

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Ford Island aerial photo RIMPAC 1986

Pearl Harbor is a United States Navy deep-water naval base located on the island of Oahu in the state of Hawaii, United States. It is most well-known for the Attack on Pearl Harbor by the Empire of Japan on December 7, 1941, which led directly to the United States' entry into World War II. The attack on Pearl Harbor has since become synonymous with the start of the American involvement in the Second World War, marking a pivotal moment in 20th-century American history.

History

Before the attack, Pearl Harbor was used by the Pacific Fleet of the United States Navy. The location was strategically chosen due to its central position in the Pacific Ocean, making it a key point for naval operations in the Pacific. The harbor's history, however, extends back to long before it became a naval base, with the area originally being used by the indigenous Hawaiian people for fishing and trade.

Attack on Pearl Harbor

On the morning of December 7, 1941, the Empire of Japan launched a surprise military strike against the United States naval base at Pearl Harbor. The attack was intended as a preventive action to keep the U.S. Pacific Fleet from interfering with military actions the Empire of Japan was planning in Southeast Asia. Over 2,400 Americans were killed, and more than 1,000 were wounded. The attack led to the destruction or damage of numerous ships and aircraft. Notably, the USS Arizona remains sunken in the harbor with its crew onboard, serving as a memorial to those lost in the attack.

Following the attack, the United States declared war on Japan on December 8, 1941, entering World War II alongside the Allies. The event marked a significant shift in U.S. foreign policy from isolationism to direct involvement in global affairs.

Aftermath and Legacy

The attack on Pearl Harbor had a profound impact on American society and the course of World War II. It galvanized American support for the war effort and led to the rapid expansion of the U.S. military. In the years following the attack, Pearl Harbor continued to serve as a key naval base for operations in the Pacific Theater.

Today, Pearl Harbor is a National Historic Landmark and home to several memorials, including the USS Arizona Memorial, which attracts millions of visitors each year. The site serves as a reminder of the cost of war and the importance of peace.

See Also

• World War II
• USS Arizona Memorial
• Military history of the United States
• History of Hawaii