The attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941 was a pivotal moment in American history, marking the United States' entry into World War II. The surprise attack by Japanese forces resulted in significant loss of life and damage to the U.S. naval fleet stationed at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. This event not only reshaped the course of the war, but also had a profound impact on the American psyche and its role in global affairs. In this essay, we will analyze the events leading up to the attack on Pearl Harbor and its aftermath through the use of a Document-Based Question (DBQ) approach. By examining primary source documents and historical context, we will explore the complex factors that led to the attack and evaluate its consequences. This investigation will shed light on the debates and theories surrounding the attack, providing a deeper understanding of its significance in shaping American history. Ultimately, this essay aims to demonstrate how the attack on Pearl Harbor was a defining moment that changed the course of World War II and had lasting implications for the United States and the world. The primary factor contributing to the attack on Pearl Harbor was the growing tension between the United States and Japan in the years leading up to the event. Japanese expansionist policies in Asia, particularly China, posed a direct threat to American interests in the region. This was exacerbated by the US imposition of economic sanctions on Japan in response to its aggressive actions. As highlighted in Document A, the Japanese government viewed these sanctions as a threat to its national security and sought to secure access to vital resources by expanding its territorial control. This growing hostility and competition for power in the Pacific has set the stage for potential conflict between the two nations. The attack on Pearl Harbor can therefore be seen as the culmination of growing tensions and rivalries between the United States and Japan. The consequences of this attack, as we will explore in the following paragraphs, were far-reaching and had a profound impact on the course of the war and the global balance of power. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay The attack on Pearl Harbor also revealed significant intelligence failures on the part of the United States, contributing to the surprise and devastating nature of the assault. As indicated in Document C, there were warning signs and indications of an imminent Japanese attack, but these were not adequately addressed or communicated to the relevant authorities. This failure to accurately assess the threat posed by Japan and adequately prepare for a potential attack left American forces vulnerable and unprepared on the day of the assault. The consequences of this intelligence failure were catastrophic, resulting in the loss of numerous American lives and the destruction of a significant portion of the Pacific Fleet. The attack on Pearl Harbor thus exposed critical weaknesses in U.S. intelligence and military preparedness, prompting a reevaluation of its national security strategies and policies. This event served as a wake-up call for the United States, prompting it to renew its focus on improving its intelligence capabilities and military readiness in the face of future threats. Furthermore, the attack on Pearl Harbor had a profound impact on the American psyche and mentality. the perception of one's role in global affairs. As demonstrated in Document E, the shock and outrage following the attack galvanized.