Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor

The Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor was a surprise military strike on the U.S. naval base in Hawaii on December 7, 1941. Japan aimed to weaken the U.S. Pacific Fleet and secure its expansion in Asia by destroying ships, aircraft, and infrastructure. The attack lasted about two hours and resulted in significant damage, including many ships sunk or damaged and over 2,400 Americans killed. This action prompted the United States to enter World War II, shifting from neutrality to active involvement against Japan and its allies.