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Japan launched a surprise attack on the U.S. naval base at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. This attack severely damaged the U.S. Pacific Fleet and led the United States to officially enter World War II.
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After U.S. and Filipino forces surrendered to Japan in the Philippines, and thousands of prisoners were forced to march long distances under brutal conditions. Many died from starvation, abuse, harsh treatment by Japanese forces.
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Allied forces initiated their first significant offensive attack against Japan. The victory began pushing Japanese forces back and shifted momentum to the Allies.
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The U.S. launched its first air raid on Japan, bombing Tokyo and other cities. The damage was minimal, but it boosted America's confidence and showed that Japan was vulnerable.
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The U.S. Navy defeated Japan in a battle, sinking four Japanese aircraft carriers. This battle marked a major turning point, stopping Japanese expansion in the Pacific.
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The largest navy battle of World War II, which resulted in a U.S. victory. It effectively destroyed Japan’s navy and allowed the Allies to retake the Philippines.
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U.S. Marines fought to capture the island of Iwo Jima. The island was important because it provided airfields closer to Japan for bombing missions.
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One of the bloodiest battles of the Pacific, where Japan showed they would defend their territory. The high casualties made the U.S. decide to use atomic bombs.
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The U.S. dropped atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki, which caused massive destruction and fatalities. These bombings led directly to Japan’s surrender.
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Japan surrendered abord the USS Missouri, and officially ended WWII