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An example of Japan's expansionist aims.
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As part of an aim to gain more territory in East Asia, Japan invades China, which initiates the expanding of World War II into the Pacific.
Basic Summary of World War II in the Pacific - Starting with Japanese invasions in China -
The most infamous of Japanese attacks on China: Japanese aggressors slaughtered around 100,000 people, and raped thousands of women in the Chinese city of Nanjing.
See a BBC News Article About the Rape of Nanjing Here -
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Japan signs the Tripartite Pact with Germany and Italy, entering the military alliance known as the "Axis Powers"
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The Japanese launch a surprise air attack on the American naval base at Pearl Harbor in Hawaii, in an attempt to strike the United States before it was prepared for the war.
See an Overview of Pearl Harbor Here -
After the Pearl Harbor bombing, the Unites States enters the war - which then encourages Germany and Italy to declare war on America as well.
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December 11-13, 1945
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In anticipation of a Japanese invasion in the United States, President Harry S. Truman ordered that an atomic bomb be dropped on the Japanese city of Hiroshima - which killed around 100,000 people
Article on Hiroshima and Nagasaki Bombings -
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A second atomic bomb was dropped on a Japanese city just 3 days after Hiroshima. Within days of the Nagasaki bombing, Japanese Emperor Hirohito declared Japan's surrender.
Article on Hiroshima and Nagasaki Bombings -
As a result of the bombings at Hiroshima and Nagasaki, Japan formally surrenders - which officially marks the ending of World War II.