Pearl Harbor Eric Spry T&L 466 Current Media Project

December 7, 1941 Japanese naval forces under the command of Admiral Hirohito launched a surprise air attack on the American naval base located at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. The base was commanded by Admiral Kimmel. The purpose of the attack was to destroy the United States’ ability to wage war in the Pacific by annihilating the American naval forces, specifically the powerful battleships and aircraft carriers.

Overview of Battle Beginning at 7:48 am on Sunday, December 7 th, Japanese bombers and torpedo planes began their runs on the ships docked at pearl Harbor. Two waves of planes were launched by Japanese aircraft carriers, with a third wave cancelled due to Yamamoto’s fear that surprise had been lost.

American Losses 8 battleships sunk or severely damaged 2 destroyers sunk and 1 damaged 188 aircraft destroyed and 155 damaged 2402 military deaths 1247 military wounded 57 civilian deaths 35 civilians wounded

Japanese Losses 5 midget submarines sunk or damaged 29 aircraft destroyed 55 airmen killed 9 submariners killed

Aftermath Devastated American naval capabilities President Roosevelt immediately asked Congress to declare war on Japan Changed American naval strategy. Aircraft carriers (which were out on maneuvers and not affected by attack) became focal point and U.S. transitioned to carrier-based war strategy.

Assignment In groups of 3-4, create a powerpoint presentation. Topic of presentation must be related to World War II. Utilize the library, resource center, and internet for your research (class time will be set aside for this). Groups will present their assignments to the class. Be prepared to answer questions from classmates and teacher.