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Attack on Pearl Harbor
A surprize attack on a U.S naval base by the Japanese. The first wave included 200 aircrafts including torpedo planes, bombers and fighters. Of the 126 planes on the ground, 42 were totally destroyed, 41 were damaged, and only 43 were left fit for service. -
The Battle of the Coral Sea
The Japanese thought they could attack two areas at once but, did not know that american code breakers already broke Japan's code. When decoded messages came thru Admiral Nimitz sent the Yorktown and the Lexington to intercept the Japanese fleet. -
Bataan Death March
78000 American troops surrendered and were told to march 65 miles to a prison camp -
Doolittle Raid
A military planner suggested replacing a carrier's usual short range bombers with long range B-25 bombers. But would have to land in China. It was the first time American bombs fell on Japan -
The Battle of Midway
Code breakers learned of a plan from the Japanese to attack Midway. The Japanese used the same code the Americans already broke. The Americans ambushed the Japanese and suck 3 carriers. -
Island Hopping begins
The American plan which would have a two pronged attack on Japan, and would mean the American navy would "hop" from island to island to get closer and closer to Japan. -
The Battle of Tarawa
1000 American marines died and photos were taken of dead bodies lying crumpled next to burning landing crafts. -
The Battle of Kwajalein
First battle amphtracs were used, much smoother than Tarawa due to the amphtracs. -
The Battle of Leyte Gulf
Largest naval battle in history, first time the Japanese used kamikazes or "divine wind" which refers to the great storm that destroyed the Mongolian fleet. -
Battle of Iwo Jima
60000 marines landed on Iwo Jima, when they left their amphtracs the marines would sink up to their ankles in volcanic ash and were pounded by Japanese artillery.