why did japan attack pearl harbor what was their purpose?
thanks so much
=]
Check this site.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Attack_on_Pearl_Harbor
If you'd like to post your answer, we'll be glad to comment on it.
Japan attacked Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, during World War II. The attack was a surprise military strike by the Japanese Empire against the United States naval base at Pearl Harbor, located in the territory of Hawaii. The primary purpose of the attack was to neutralize the power of the U.S. Pacific Fleet and prevent American interference in Japan's planned military expansion in Southeast Asia and the Pacific.
To understand why Japan attacked Pearl Harbor, you can research and consider the following points:
1. Imperial Expansion: Japan wanted to secure and expand its territories in Southeast Asia, particularly in countries like China, Vietnam, and the Dutch East Indies (present-day Indonesia), which were rich in resources like oil, rubber, and minerals.
2. U.S. Embargo: The United States imposed economic sanctions against Japan, including an embargo on oil exports, due to Japan's invasion of China and ongoing war in Asia. This severely threatened Japan's ability to sustain its military campaigns and economic growth.
3. Military Preparedness: Japan believed that a surprise attack on the U.S. Pacific Fleet at Pearl Harbor would hinder American ability to respond quickly and decisively. They hoped this would provide Japan with enough time to capture and secure key strategic locations in Southeast Asia.
4. Preventing American Intervention: Japan saw the United States as a potential obstacle in their expansion plans. By neutralizing the U.S. Pacific Fleet, Japan aimed to discourage American interference and establish a dominant position in the region.
It is important to note that attacking Pearl Harbor pushed the United States into World War II. The following day, the United States declared war on Japan.