What Happened at Pearl Harbor? On December 7, 1941, the United States experienced a surprise military attack by the Imperial Japanese Navy against the naval base at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. This attack led to significant loss of life and damage to the U.S. Pacific Fleet and marked a pivotal moment in history, ultimately leading to the United States' entry into World War II. Step-by-Step Breakdown of Events Prelude to the Attack: In the years leading up to the attack, tensions between Japan and the United States had been escalating due to Japanese expansionism in Asia. The U.S. had imposed economic sanctions on Japan, which increased hostilities. The Attack: On the morning of December 7, 1941, at 7:48 AM Hawaiian Time, the attack began. The Japanese launched a total of 353 aircraft in two waves, targeting battleships, aircraft, and other military installations. The primary objectives were to destroy the U.S. Pacific Fleet and prevent any effective response against Japanese expansion. Casualties and Damage: The attack resulted in the deaths of 2,403 Americans, including military personnel and civilians. Twenty naval vessels were sunk or damaged, and over 300 aircraft were destroyed. Immediate Aftermath: The day after the attack, President Franklin D. Roosevelt addressed Congress, calling December 7 "a date which will live in infamy." On December 8, 1941, the U.S. declared war on Japan. Long-Term Effects: The attack on Pearl Harbor unified public opinion in the U.S. in favor of entering World War II. It led to significant military preparations and a major shift in U.S. foreign policy. Conclusion The attack on Pearl Harbor was a critical event that catalyzed U.S. involvement in World War II. It remains a symbol of American vulnerability and the complexities of international relations during that era. Further Exploration U.S. National Archives: Pearl Harbor History.com: Pearl Harbor Encyclopedia Britannica: Pearl Harbor Attack