Summary
On December 7, 1941, Japan launched a surprise attack on American naval forces at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, which decimated the Pacific Fleet. But the two nations had been on a collision course for years. Japanese imperialism had folded much of East Asia into its growing empire. The United States, hoping to avoid being pulled into World War II, relied on diplomatic sanctions to curb Japanese aggression. But that only worsened relations between the rival powers. The bombing raid at Pearl Harbor sunk dozens of ships and killed thousands of sailors—but also strengthened American resolve. President Roosevelt rallied the nation as the United States entered World War II on the side of the Allies. The resounding defeat at Pearl Harbor was avenged by the eventual Allied victory, but only after years of fighting and countless deaths. In the decades that followed, the United States and Japan healed their wounds and developed close national ties. December 7th is now a day when the former adversaries unite to honor fallen comrades on both sides of this historic battle.
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Teaching resources
Discussion questions
A few questions to talk through after watching Pearl Harbor:
- What is one new thing you learned about pearl harbor?
- Can you explain it to a partner in your own words?
- Where might you see this in the real world?
- What is one question you still have?
Quick work-a-long
Try it:
- Write one sentence explaining pearl harbor.
- Draw or give one example of your own.