Pearl Harbor Attack December 7 1941 — Reading Comprehension

The attack on Pearl Harbor occurred on December 7, 1941, when Japanese forces launched a surprise military strike against the United States naval base in Hawaii. This event marked a turning point in world history and led to the United States entering World War II. The causes of the attack were complex, involving both immediate and long-term factors that changed the course of international relations.

One important cause was the growing tension between Japan and the United States over economic and political power in the Pacific. Japan, seeking more resources to support its expanding empire, wanted to control parts of East Asia. The United States, however, opposed these ambitions and placed an embargo—a restriction on trade—on oil and other vital materials to Japan. This embargo put pressure on Japan’s leaders, who believed that their nation's survival depended on gaining access to these resources.

Japanese officials made the decision to attack Pearl Harbor as a way to weaken the American fleet, hoping this would prevent the United States from interfering in Japan’s plans for expansion. Admiral Isoroku Yamamoto, who designed the attack, believed that a quick and powerful strike would give Japan an early advantage. However, some Japanese leaders were concerned about the risks, fearing that attacking the United States would provoke a larger and longer war.

On the morning of December 7, 1941, more than 350 Japanese aircraft bombed and torpedoed the naval base at Pearl Harbor. Eight American battleships and many other vessels were damaged or destroyed, and over 2,400 Americans were killed. The attack shocked the American public and shattered the belief that the United States was safe from foreign attacks. President Franklin D. Roosevelt addressed Congress the next day, describing December 7th as “a date which will live in infamy.” This phrase, taken from his speech, captured the nation’s sense of outrage and determination. Roosevelt’s speech led directly to Congress declaring war on Japan.

While many Americans saw the attack as sudden and unprovoked, Japanese leaders argued that the United States’ embargo and military presence in the Pacific threatened Japan’s security. Japanese Admiral Nagumo later wrote, “We acted out of necessity, not aggression.” This quote shows that historical events are often interpreted differently by those involved. Civilians in Hawaii experienced fear, confusion, and loss, as the attack caused destruction not only to military targets but also to nearby communities.

The consequences of the Pearl Harbor attack were significant. The United States immediately entered World War II, joining the Allies against the Axis powers. American factories shifted to producing weapons and supplies for the war effort, and millions of men and women joined the military or worked on the home front. The attack also led to suspicion and discrimination against Japanese Americans, many of whom were placed in internment camps despite having no connection to the attack.

In summary, the Pearl Harbor attack was the result of conflicting goals and tensions between nations. It changed the direction of U.S. foreign policy and had lasting effects on American society and world history. By examining multiple perspectives and using evidence, we can better understand why this event happened and why it matters today.

Interesting Fact: The aircraft carriers of the U.S. Pacific Fleet were not at Pearl Harbor during the attack and escaped destruction, playing a crucial role later in the war.

When did the Pearl Harbor attack happen?

Where did the Japanese attack occur?

Who was President during the attack?

Why did Japan attack Pearl Harbor?

What was one result of the attack?

What did Roosevelt call December 7th?

The attack on Pearl Harbor was unexpected.

What does "embargo" mean?