Question

What was the main reason for the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor?

A. To cripple the US Pacific Fleet and prevent the US from interfering with Japan's plans in Asia.
B. To avenge the US embargo on oil and other goods.
C. To gain control of the Hawaiian Islands.
D. To force the US to surrender in World War II.

Answer 1

The primary objective of the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor was to cripple the U.S. Pacific Fleet, thus preventing the U.S. from hindering Japan's expansionist plans in Asia. (option A)

Step-by-step explanation:

The main reason for the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor was A. To cripple the US Pacific Fleet and prevent the US from interfering with Japan's plans in Asia. To achieve their imperialistic ambitions of expanding their territory and securing resources, the Japanese sought a quick and powerful way to ensure the United States would not oppose them. By striking the U.S. Pacific Fleet at Pearl Harbor, they hoped to eliminate any immediate military response from the U.S., thus ensuring their unopposed expansion Eastward. The attack was not directly to avenge the U.S. embargo on oil and other goods, to gain control of the Hawaiian Islands, nor to force the U.S. into surrender, although the embargo did play a significant role in escalating tensions between the two nations.