-
Japan invades Manchuria
On September 18, 1931, Japan invaded Manchuria. This event is significant because it is often seen as the event that began World War II. In 1921, the Great Depression took a great affect on Japan and it's civilian government began to weaken. Manchuria was rich with minerals, agricultural land and forestry at the time and Japan saw this country, located on China's Eastern Seaboard, to be a solution to their problems with overpopulation and industry. -
Japan invades Pearl Harbour
On December 7, 1941, Japan attacked US territory for the first time. Being the first time America was attacked as a nation, this event marked a significant time in history. Pearl Harbour, located in the US state of Hawaii, was the target for the attack. A total of 353 bomber and torpedo planes were launched from six air craft carriers. Four US naval battleships were then destroyed and and a total of 2402 men lost their lives. -
Australia declares war on Japan
Upon hearing the news that Japan had attack Pearl Harbour, occupied on US territory, Australia heard that Malaya, British territory was also bombarded by the Japanese. John Curtain, Australia's Prime Minister at the time, decided to declare war on Japan. Although, he first had to consult the King of England in order for him to give consent to declare war. This marks a significant event in Australia's history as it was the day that Australia became part of one of the biggest wars in history. -
Japan bombs Darwin
When Japan bombed Australia on 19th February 1942, it marked the biggest attack ever launched against Australia and is therefore one of it's most significant attacks in history. This event has often been refered to 'Pearl Harbour of Australia' as more bombs were dropped on Darwin than that of Pearl Harbour. This day also marked the first of nearly 100 air raids against Australia over the next year. The Japanese launched the attack on Darwin due to the naval port and air base located there. -
America drops atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki
On 6th August 1945, America dropped an atomic bomb on the city of Hiroshima, Japan. Following this 3 days later on August 9th, the United States dropped a second bomb on the city of Nagasaki, Japan. These two events were particularly significant as they caused World War II to end. In the two to four months that followed, a total death toll of 246000 arose. Flash burns, flame burns, radiation poisening and falling debris were said to be the main cause of deaths.
