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Japan launched a surprise attack on a U.S. naval base, sinking ships and destroying planes. This event caused the U.S. to enter the war.
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Captured soldiers were forced to march a long distance to prison camps under harsh conditions. Many died from starvation, dehydration, or brutal treatment.
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The US carried out an air raid on Japanese cities to show Japan was vulnerable. While the damage was small, it boosted American morale.
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A major naval battle where the U.S. destroyed key Japanese ships. This marked a turning point by weakening Japan’s power in the Pacific.
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The first major land offensive by the U.S. against Japan. Winning this battle allowed the Allies to advance toward Japan.
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Allied forces recaptured the Philippines in a fierce battle. This victory greatly diminished Japan’s navy and ability to fight.
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A brutal battle where U.S. forces seized a small island close to Japan. The island became a critical base for American aircraft.
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One of the bloodiest battles in the Pacific, it provided the Allies a strategic location to prepare for a potential invasion of Japan.
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The U.S. dropped atomic bombs on these cities, causing massive destruction and casualties. This led to Japan’s surrender.
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Japan officially surrendered, bringing World War II to an end in the Pacific and marking the start of postwar rebuilding.