Directions: Read and review the following information about U.S. involvement in World War II. Use the chart below to summarize the most significant battles in which the United States participated. The first one has been completed for you as a model. (Note: Click on the link below to print a copy of the chart.) Fill in the chart as you progress through this lesson. This information will help you complete the timeline assignment.

Chart Printout

Battle Year Summary Significance
Pearl Harbor 1941 Japanese Imperial Forces attacked US Naval Headquarters at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii The attack on the United States brought America into World War II.
North Africa Campaign      
Battle of Italy      
D-Day      
Battle of the Bulge      
Invasion of Germany      
Battle in the Philippines      
Battle of Midway      
Battle of Coral Sea      
Bombing of Japan      

The Bombing of Pearl Harbor

Video segment. Assistance may be required. Watch the following video of the Bombing of Pearl Harbor.

Source: WWII: Japan bombs Pearl Harbor, Britannica.com, YouTube

On December 7th, 1941, Japanese Imperial Forces attacked the United States Pacific Fleet Headquarters at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii.

Image of a drawing of a panoramic scene of the attack on pearl harbor.

Charcoal and chalk drawing: The Japanese Sneak Attack on Pearl Harbor, Griffin Bailey Coale, navy History & heritage Command

In response to the Japanese attack, the following day President Franklin Roosevelt asked Congress for a declaration of war in what became known as "Day of Infamy Speech."

Image of the text of Franklin Roosevelt's Date of Infamy speech.

Source: Date of Infamy, Franklin Roosevelt, National Archives

After the surprise Japanese attack on the Pearl Harbor, the United States had no choice but to enter World War II.

Artwork depiction of the bombing of Pearl Harbor; a Japanese airplanes fly over American ships that are burning while an American ship is spraying water on them.

Source: Pearl Harbor, Focal Point.

In this lesson, you will examine how the United States was able to conduct a war in several locations around the world. You will examine various battles of World War II and determine their importance in the outcome of World War II.