Final answer:
Tensions between the US and Japan in the late 1930s increased due to Japan's continued expansion into China, its alignment with Axis countries, and the invasion of French Indochina, which ultimately led to the US imposing economic sanctions and the attack on Pearl Harbor.
Step-by-step explanation:
Events Increasing US-Japan Tensions in the Late 1930s
Several key events escalated tensions between Japan and the United States in the late 1930s, which ultimately led to the outbreak of war between the two nations.
- Japan's expansion into China: The United States was strongly opposed to Japan's aggressive expansionist policies in Asia, particularly the ongoing invasion and conquest of China. This undermined the US diplomatic stance against imperialism and threatened regional stability.
- Japan joining the Axis countries: By aligning itself with Germany and Italy in the Tripartite Pact, Japan formalized its position against the Allied powers, including the United States, which was supporting nations like Britain against the Axis powers.
- Japan's invasion of French Indochina: The Japanese occupation of French Indochina was met with economic sanctions by the United States, including an embargo on oil and other essential goods, which was detrimental to Japan's war efforts and catalyzed further hostilities.
These events, culminating in the Japanese decision to attack Pearl Harbor in December 1941, marked a point of no return, as diplomatic relations eroded and open conflict became inevitable.