December 7 in American History

December 7, 1941 — the attack on Pearl Harbor

Japanese aircraft struck the U.S. naval base at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, killing over 2,400 Americans and sinking or damaging much of the Pacific Fleet. President Roosevelt called it "a date which will live in infamy." The next day America was at war, and the course of the 20th century turned.

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Common Questions

What happened on December 7 in American history?

In 1941: the attack on Pearl Harbor. Japanese aircraft struck the U.S.

Why is December 7 significant?

Japanese aircraft struck the U.S. naval base at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, killing over 2,400 Americans and sinking or damaging much of the Pacific Fleet. President Roosevelt called it "a date which will live in infamy." The next day America was at war, and the course of the 20th century turned.

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