The Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941 resulted in extensive damage to the U.S. Pacific Fleet, with nearly 20 ships, including eight battleships, being either sunk or severely damaged. Over 300 aircraft were also destroyed or heavily damaged. The attack resulted in the deaths of 2,403 military personnel and civilians, with an additional 1,178 people being wounded. The loss of life and destruction of naval assets prompted the United States to enter World War II.
