HISET Social Studies Practice

What event prompted the United States to enter World War II on December 7, 1941?

1. The bombing of Tokyo

2. The attack on Pearl Harbor

3. The invasion of Poland

4. The sinking of the Lusitania

The correct answer is: The attack on Pearl Harbor

The attack on Pearl Harbor was a pivotal moment that led the United States to enter World War II. On December 7, 1941, the Japanese launched a surprise military strike against the U.S. naval base at Pearl Harbor in Hawaii. This attack resulted in significant loss of life and damage to the Pacific Fleet, with the destruction of numerous ships and aircraft. In the wake of this aggressive act, the U.S. government responded swiftly, declaring war on Japan the following day. This decision marked a crucial turning point, drawing the United States fully into the global conflict that had already been ongoing in Europe and Asia. In contrast, while the bombing of Tokyo occurred later during the war as part of U.S. military operations, it was not the event that initiated America’s involvement. The invasion of Poland happened in 1939 and was one of the catalysts for the war in Europe, but it did not directly involve the U.S. until years later. The sinking of the Lusitania in 1915 was an important event in World War I, influencing U.S. public opinion but not relevant to World War II. Thus, the attack on Pearl Harbor is the event that unequivocally triggered U.S. engagement in World War II.