“Yesterday, December 7, 1941 — a date which will live in infamy — the United States of America was suddenly and deliberately attacked by naval and air forces of the Empire of Japan.” – Franklin D. Roosevelt
Though not a day to celebrate, December 7th is certainly a day of remembrance! In 1941, the Imperial Japanese Navy attacked the American Army and Navy base in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. Many American servicemen and servicewomen lost their lives or were injured on this day. So, December 7, 1941, is known as Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day or Pearl Harbor Day.
This loss of more than 2,000 American citizens and over 1,000 injured was catastrophic because this was a surprise attack during World War II. The Americans also lost many of their battleships, plus nearly 200 aircraft stationed in the Pacific region. Losses on the Japanese side were more than 60 killed, injured, or captured. The Japanese Navy lost five midget submarines and 29 aircraft.
The Japanese military had hoped that their attack on Pearl Harbor would stop the United States of America from increasing its influence in the Pacific region. What ended up happening, however, was the escalation of World War II. The day after the attack on Pearl Harbor, the United States declared war on Japan. This was when the United States officially entered World War II. Shortly afterward, Germany also declared war on the United States.
Though war is never an easy topic with younger children, you could do some map work with the Axis and Allied powers for this day of remembrance. For older children, some resources are available for reading aloud or on their own.
A few favorites are:
What was Pearl Harbor by Patricia Brennan
Remember World War II: Kids Who Survived Tell Their Stories by Dorina Nicholson
Pearl Harbor: Ready to Read Level 3 by Stephen Krensky
How do you remember Pearl Harbor Day in your homeschool?
Check out the homeschooling resources at Rainbow Resource Center.
