Every year, National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day falls on December 7th. This day is dedicated to remembering the attack on Pearl Harbor, which occurred on December 7, 1941.
The attack on Pearl Harbor was a turning point for the United States, marking its entry into World War II.
Here’s a look at what happened on that day, the historical context surrounding it, and the impact it continues to have.
The events of December 7, 1941
The date “Pearl Harbor Day” refers to the day Japan attacked the U.S. naval base at Pearl Harbor, Oahu, Hawaii, bringing the United States into World War II.
The surprise attack
On December 7, 1941, the Imperial Japanese Navy launched a surprise attack on Pearl Harbor, with the goal of taking out the U.S. Pacific Fleet.
The attack was devastating, destroying or damaging 19 U.S. warships and 300 aircraft.
Casualties and damage
More than 2,400 U.S. servicemen died in the attack. Almost half of those deaths occurred on the USS Arizona.
The USS Arizona and USS Oklahoma were sunk, and more than a million pounds of ammunition ignited on the USS Arizona.
The historical context: a “long fuse”
The attack on Pearl Harbor wasn’t a completely isolated incident. A number of factors led to the strike, which President Franklin D. Roosevelt called “a date which will live in infamy.”
Rising tensions
Japan had modernized rapidly and was becoming a Pacific power. This set the stage for conflict with the United States as the two nations competed for dominance in the region. The U.S. decision to move its Pacific Fleet to Pearl Harbor in 1940 ratcheted up the tension even further.
Japan’s war in China
Japan’s invasion of China stretched its resources and led to increasingly brutal tactics, including the infamous “three alls” policy (kill all, burn all, loot all).
In an effort to stop Japan’s aggression, the U.S. imposed economic sanctions, but these ultimately failed to deter Japan. The sanctions, which were a form of economic warfare, only deepened the conflict and set the stage for the attack on Pearl Harbor.
Pearl Harbor’s Legacy and Remembrance
The attack on Pearl Harbor changed the course of history for the United States. Here’s a look at how the event is remembered today.
A Nation United
Before the attack, the U.S. had largely remained apart from the conflicts brewing in Europe and Asia. The bombing of Pearl Harbor shattered that isolationist stance and galvanized the American public, uniting them in support of entering World War II. The attack also had deep and lasting consequences for the relationship between the U.S. and Japan.
Honoring the Fallen
National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day is a solemn occasion to honor those who died on that fateful day. On December 7th, the American flag is flown at half-staff across the country. The memorials at Pearl Harbor stand as a place to remember the tragedy of war and to reflect on the sacrifices made. The Pearl Harbor National Memorial is a key site for remembrance, where visitors can pay their respects and learn about the events of that day.
Putting It All Together
The attack on Pearl Harbor remains a pivotal event in world history, reminding us of the terrible costs of war and the importance of diplomacy.
Remembering Pearl Harbor is a way to honor those who lost their lives on that tragic day, as well as those who survived. National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day gives us all an opportunity to reflect on the past and remember the lessons learned.