Why did the United States enter World War II?
(Bombing of) Pearl Harbor
In December 1941, Japan attacked the U.S. naval base at Pearl Harbor in Hawaii. Many Americans were killed and ships were destroyed, so the United States declared war and joined World War II. This event quickly united the country behind entering the war.
Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor
In December 1941, Japan bombed a U.S. naval base at Pearl Harbor in Hawaii, killing many Americans and damaging ships and planes. After this surprise attack, the United States declared war and joined World War II.
To support the Allied Powers (England, France, and Russia)
The United States joined the war to help countries fighting against the Axis Powers, especially after major attacks and growing threats in Europe and Asia. Working with allies like Great Britain, France, and the Soviet Union helped stop aggressive expansion and protect shared security and values.
To oppose the Axis Powers (Germany, Italy, and Japan)
After Japan attacked Pearl Harbor in 1941, the United States declared war, and Germany and Italy then declared war on the United States. The U.S. joined the fight to stop the Axis countries from taking over more territory and threatening other nations. It also worked with Allies like Britain and the Soviet Union to defeat them.