Events That Led Up To The Bombing Of Pearl Harbor

Introduction

As we commemorate the 82nd anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor, it’s important to look back at the events that led up to that fateful day. The surprise attack by the Japanese on the US naval base at Pearl Harbor in Hawaii on December 7, 1941, changed the course of history, leading the United States to enter World War II. In this article, we’ll delve into the events that led up to the bombing of Pearl Harbor.

The lead up to the attack

In the 1930s, Japan was expanding its empire, invading China and Southeast Asia for resources and territory. The US, along with other Western powers, placed an embargo on Japan, cutting off their supply of oil and other resources. This led to strained relations between the two countries.

The Tripartite Pact

In September 1940, Japan signed the Tripartite Pact with Germany and Italy, forming the Axis powers. This alliance further escalated tensions with the US.

The Hull note

In November 1941, the US sent a note to Japan, known as the Hull note, demanding that Japan withdraw from China and Southeast Asia. Japan saw this as interference in their affairs and refused to comply.

The attack on Pearl Harbor

On December 7, 1941, the Japanese launched a surprise attack on the US naval base at Pearl Harbor in Hawaii. The attack lasted two hours and resulted in the deaths of 2,403 Americans and the destruction of numerous ships and aircraft.

The aftermath

The attack on Pearl Harbor led to the US entering World War II. President Franklin D. Roosevelt declared war on Japan the next day, and Germany and Italy declared war on the US shortly afterward.

Events table

Here’s a chronological list of the events that led up to the bombing of Pearl Harbor:

1931: Japan invades Manchuria
1937: Japan invades China
1940: Japan signs the Tripartite Pact with Germany and Italy
1941: US places an embargo on Japan
November 1941: US sends the Hull note to Japan
December 7, 1941: Japan attacks Pearl Harbor

FAQs

What was the cause of the attack on Pearl Harbor?

The attack on Pearl Harbor was a result of strained relations between Japan and the US. Japan was expanding its empire in Asia, and the US placed an embargo on Japan, cutting off their supply of resources. Japan saw this as interference in their affairs and launched the attack.