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Pearl Harbor
Japan launched a surprise attack on the US at Pearl Harbor, resulting in around 2,000 military personnel losing their lives. The goal of this attack was to cripple American naval forces. This event marked the moment when the United States entered World War II. -
The Battle of the Coral Sea
All the combat in this battle involved aircraft from aircraft carriers. It was fought between the Imperial Japanese Navy and the forces of the United States and Australia. Although the battle ended in a draw, it was significant because it was the first time the Allies successfully halted Japan's advance. -
Battle of Midway
The Battle of Midway is recognized as one of the most significant American naval victories in World War II. The Japanese forces were defeated because the U.S. Navy successfully deciphered a Japanese naval code, allowing them to anticipate and counter Japan's strategies. -
Battle of Guadalcanal
The Battle of Guadalcanal was the first major offensive victory for the Allies in the Pacific theater. Controlling the Guadalcanal airbase was crucial for maintaining the sea lines of communication between the United States and Australia. -
Battle of Leyte
The Battle of Leyte was a crucial air and sea battle in World War II that significantly weakened the Japanese Combined Fleet. This victory enabled the U.S. invasion of the Philippines and strengthened the Allies' control over the Pacific. -
Battle of Iwo Jima
It was the first major battle of World War II fought on Japanese soil. Iwo Jima was crucial because the U.S. needed a base for bombers to land and take off when attacking Japan. The battle resulted in the deaths of 6,800 people. -
Battle of Okinawa
This battle had the highest number of casualties, with over 100,000 Japanese and 50,000 Allied casualties. It was the largest battle in the Pacific Theater, involving the military forces of the Empire of Japan and the Allies. Additionally, it was one of the longest battles in history, lasting from April to June 1945. The Allies emerged victorious and captured Okinawa. -
Hitler Commits Suicide
Hitler and his wife, Eva Braun, committed suicide in a secret bunker. Germany had no leader during the war, and just a couple days later, Berlin lost to the Soviets.