ATTACK ON PEARL HARBOR – DECEMBER 1941

Abstract

The Pearl Harbor attack, which occurred on December 7, 1941, had a significant impact on World War II, representing a dark page in history but also a lesson for future generations. Japan strategically decided to attack the American naval base in Hawaii, setting in motion a series of events that led to the United States entering the war. The Japanese objective was to eliminate the American fleet in the Pacific and secure access to resources in Southeast Asia. The tense relationship between the two countries, starting with Japan's expansion in the '30s, culminated in the surprise attack on Pearl Harbor. Japan benefited from detailed preparation and force concentration, while the unprepared United States suffered significant losses. The attack was a turning point in history, prompting the U.S. to join the war and marking the beginning of a new phase in the evolution of global conflict. In analyzing the impact, differences in military preparation and concentration are highlighted, and the words of leaders, such as Franklin D. Roosevelt's speech, had a profound psychological impact, mobilizing the nation. It is a complex and painful chapter in history, illustrating the dramatic consequences of political-military decisions and the powerful influence of communication in major events.

Keywords

• attack on pearl harbor
• world war ii
• significant losses
• mobilization of the nation
• dramatic consequences