Pearl Harbor History

Take a deep dive into the attack on December 7th, 1941, when the Japanese Imperial Navy conducted a surprise attack on the U.S. Pacific Fleet stationed at Pearl Harbor in Honolulu, Hawaii. Learn more about the U.S. leaders that were involved in making the decisions, a timeline of the events that took place that fateful day, as well as information about the U.S. ships and naval vessels that were found in battle. Join us on a journey to take a closer look at the tragedy that shaped America’s entry into World War II.

Timeline

On December 7th, 1941, a day that has been embedded in our collective memory, we explore the timeline of the Pearl Harbor attack and how it eventually led to the U.S. joining World War II. Get a detailed look at the key figures involved, as well as the sequence of events that unfolded.

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Attack

It all started on the fateful morning of December 7, 1941, which led to the beginning of World War II. Now, more than 82 years later, Pearl Harbor has many stories to tell. Visitors to the historic site can learn more about the attack, the harbor's legacy, and the efforts to protect and preserve it.

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Ships

More than one ship was sitting in the harbor that day. In fact, eight battleships, three cruisers, and four destroyers were there when the bombs started to fall. Some sunk, sustained minor damage, or returned Japanese fire. Discover how these fine ships played a vital role on the "date that would live in infamy."

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Leaders

Any event that looms as large in the timeline of American history as the attack on Pearl Harbor is bound to leave a number of leaders that define it. The more you discover, the more likely it is that you’ll come across certain names—on both sides of the attack. Here are some that you’ll definitely hear about as you dig deeper into the history.

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Frequently Asked Questions

When was Pearl Harbor attacked?

Pearl Harbor was attacked on the morning of December 7, 1941, by Japanese forces in a surprise military strike. The attack led to the United States entering World War II the following day.

How long did the attack on Pearl Harbor last?

The attack lasted about 90 minutes, beginning just before 8:00 AM and ending shortly after 9:30 AM.

Despite its short duration, it caused significant damage to ships, aircraft, and military infrastructure, and resulted in thousands of American casualties.

How many people died during the attack?

A total of 2,403 Americans were killed during the attack on Pearl Harbor, with another 1,178 wounded. Nearly half of those killed were aboard the USS Arizona.

Why was Pearl Harbor attacked?

Japan attacked Pearl Harbor to weaken the U.S. Pacific Fleet and prevent interference with its military expansion in the Pacific.

The goal was to deliver a decisive blow that would give Japan time to secure strategic territory without immediate opposition.

Why is the USS Arizona still underwater?

The USS Arizona was too heavily damaged to be salvaged after the attack and was left where it sank. Today, it remains in place as a war grave and memorial, with over 900 crew members still entombed inside.

What is the USS Arizona Memorial?

The USS Arizona Memorial is a structure built above the sunken battleship to honor those who lost their lives during the attack. Accessible only by boat, it serves as a place of remembrance for visitors from around the world.

Did Elvis Presley help fund the USS Arizona Memorial?

Yes. Elvis Presley helped raise funds for the memorial by performing a benefit concert in 1961. His contribution played a significant role in making the construction of the memorial possible.