National Pearl Harbor Day

A brave sailor in navy uniform standing on the deck of a battleship, looking out at the calm ocean waters with determination and patriotism.. — National pearl harbor day illustration

Hey there, history enthusiasts! Are you ready to dive into the fascinating world of National Pearl Harbor Day? Buckle up as we embark on a journey to explore this significant day in American history.

When is Pearl Harbor Day?

It's national pearl harbor day on the 7th December.

What is National Pearl Harbor Day?

December 7th marks National Pearl Harbor Day, a day of remembrance and honor for the lives lost during the surprise attack on Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, in 1941. It was a day that forever changed the course of world history, dragging the United States into World War II. The vicious attack by the Imperial Japanese Navy plunged the U.S. into a conflict that lasted for years and reshaped the global political landscape.

Internet Origins of National Pearl Harbor Day

On WhatNationalDayIsIt.com, we've detected a whopping 437 mentions of National Pearl Harbor Day online. The buzz surrounding this day reached its peak on December 7, 2020, when people from all corners of the internet came together to remember the heroism and sacrifice of those who experienced the tragedy firsthand.

Remembering Our Loved Ones

On National Pearl Harbor Day, we honor the memories of the brave men and women who lost their lives or were injured during the attack. It's a day to reflect on the resilience of the human spirit and to pay tribute to the sacrifices made by our military personnel and their families.

Awareness and Education

Commemorating National Pearl Harbor Day is not only about remembering the past but also about raising awareness and educating future generations. By sharing stories, documentaries, and historical records, we ensure that the significance of this day is never forgotten and that the lessons learned from the attack on Pearl Harbor continue to resonate with all of us.

A Fun Fact to Brighten Your Day

Did you know that the USS Arizona Memorial, which sits over the sunken battleship in Pearl Harbor, was designed by architect Alfred Preis? Preis, who was a Jewish refugee from Austria, believed that the design should convey a sense of peace and tranquility while honoring the lives lost. It's a beautiful reminder that even in the face of tragedy, hope and unity can emerge.

History behind the term 'Pearl Harbor'

1840

Discovery of Pearl Harbor

In 1840, a British explorer named George Simpson discovered Pearl Harbor during his journey to various ports in the Pacific. The natural harbor, located on the island of Oahu in Hawaii, impressed Simpson with its beauty and potential as a strategic naval base.

1853

Opening of Japan to the West

In 1853, Japan ended its long period of isolation and opened its ports to the West. This decision by the Japanese government allowed for increased trade and cultural exchange with foreign countries.

1850

Oyster pearl farming begins

In 1850, the first oyster pearl farm was established in Japan. These farms cultivated oysters for their valuable pearls, which were highly sought after for jewelry and decorative purposes. The success of these pearl farms led to the expansion of oyster pearl farming to other regions around the world.

1887

Lease of Pearl Harbor

In 1887, the Kingdom of Hawaii, under King David Kalakaua, granted the United States an exclusive lease to Pearl Harbor. This lease allowed the U.S. to establish a coaling and repair station for naval vessels, recognizing the harbor's importance as a staging point for American ships in the Pacific.

1893

A German expert establishes a pearl farm in Oahu

In 1893, a German expert named Jules Wagner established a pearl farm in the waters of Oahu, Hawaii. Wagner introduced Japanese pearl oysters to the area and successfully began cultivating pearls on the farm. This marked the beginning of the pearl farming industry in Hawaii and the Pacific region.

1899

The American Annexation of Hawaii

In 1899, the United States officially annexed the Hawaiian Islands, making Hawaii a territory of the U.S. This move was driven by economic interests in establishing a naval base in the Pacific.

1941

Attack on Pearl Harbor

On December 7, 1941, the infamous attack on Pearl Harbor took place. This surprise military strike by the Imperial Japanese Navy against the United States' Pacific Fleet stationed at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, propelled the United States into World War II. The devastating attack resulted in the loss of numerous lives and a significant amount of damage to the American naval fleet.

1941

Japanese Attack on Pearl Harbor

On December 7, 1941, the Japanese launched a surprise military attack on the U.S. naval base at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. This act of aggression marked the entry of the United States into World War II. The attack resulted in significant damage to the U.S. Pacific Fleet with many casualties.

1908

Pearl Harbor Naval Station Established

By 1908, the United States had developed Pearl Harbor into a full-fledged naval station. The U.S. Navy recognized the potential of the harbor for its fleet, and significant infrastructural developments, including dredging and the construction of facilities, commenced to accommodate warships.

1945

End of World War II

World War II came to an end in 1945, with the unconditional surrender of Japan. The devastating attack on Pearl Harbor remained a significant event in history, and the war itself had far-reaching global consequences in terms of geopolitics and the reshaping of the post-war world order.

1962

Creation of Pearl Harbor memorial

In 1962, the USS Arizona Memorial was dedicated to commemorate the lives lost during the attack on Pearl Harbor. The memorial, built over the sunken USS Arizona battleship, stands as a solemn tribute to those who perished and serves as a reminder of the historical significance of the event.

1911

Official Naming of Pearl Harbor

In 1911, the United States officially designated the area as 'Pearl Harbor.' The name derived from the abundance of pearl-producing oysters that once populated the harbor, making it an attractive location for pearl divers. Although the pearl industry declined over time, the name endured, becoming synonymous with the naval base.

1962

Establishment of the USS Arizona Memorial

In 1962, the USS Arizona Memorial was established as a national memorial to honor the lives lost during the attack on Pearl Harbor. The memorial, located above the sunken battleship, serves as a symbol of remembrance and pays tribute to the victims of the attack.

1994

Pearl Harbor Visitor Center opens

The Pearl Harbor Visitor Center was opened to the public in 1994. This center provides educational exhibits, artifacts, and a place for visitors to learn about the history of the attack on Pearl Harbor. It serves as a memorial and a means of preserving the memory of the event for future generations.

1941

Attack on Pearl Harbor

December 7, 1941, marked a tragic turning point in Pearl Harbor's history. The Imperial Japanese Navy launched a surprise attack on the U.S. Pacific Fleet stationed at Pearl Harbor. This attack propelled the United States into World War II and forever changed the destiny of the harbor, leading to substantial military expansion and transformation.

1991

Pearl Harbor as a National Historic Landmark

In 1991, Pearl Harbor was designated as a National Historic Landmark, recognizing its significance in American history. The site continues to be visited by millions of tourists each year, providing a somber reminder of the events that occurred on that fateful day.