When did the bombing of Pearl Harbor occur?

The bombing of Pearl Harbor occurred on December 7, 1941. This event marked a significant turning point in World War II, as it led to the United States formally entering the conflict. The surprise military strike by the Imperial Japanese Navy aimed to incapacitate the U.S. Pacific Fleet and prevent American interference in Japan's plans for territorial expansion in Southeast Asia.

Understanding this date is crucial, as it triggered a wave of patriotism and mobilization within the United States, leading to a robust military response and significant contributions to the Allied war effort. The aftermath of the attack fundamentally changed the course of the war and American foreign policy. Recognizing December 7 as "a date which will live in infamy," President Franklin D. Roosevelt emphasized the attack's sudden and shocking nature, which resonates in American history.