Intro
Explore the devastating history of battleships sunk at Pearl Harbor, a pivotal event in World War II. Discover the heroic stories of USS Arizona, USS Oklahoma, and other ships lost on December 7, 1941. Learn about the attacks significance, casualties, and its impact on American history, naval warfare, and the Pacific Theater.
The surprise attack on Pearl Harbor by the Imperial Japanese Navy on December 7, 1941, is one of the most infamous events in modern history. The assault, which killed over 2,400 Americans and destroyed numerous U.S. naval vessels, drew the United States into World War II. Among the ships sunk or damaged during the attack were several battleships, which were the pride of the U.S. Pacific Fleet. This article will delve into the history of the battleships sunk at Pearl Harbor, their significance, and the lasting impact of the attack.
The Battleships of Pearl Harbor
The U.S. Pacific Fleet at Pearl Harbor consisted of eight battleships, which were the mainstay of the fleet's firepower. These battleships were:
- USS Arizona (BB-39)
- USS Oklahoma (BB-37)
- USS California (BB-44)
- USS West Virginia (BB-48)
- USS Tennessee (BB-43)
- USS Maryland (BB-46)
- USS Pennsylvania (BB-38)
- USS Nevada (BB-36)
The Attack on Pearl Harbor
On the morning of December 7, 1941, the Imperial Japanese Navy launched a surprise attack on Pearl Harbor, catching the U.S. Pacific Fleet off guard. The assault began at 7:55 a.m. Hawaiian Time, with the first wave of Japanese bombers and fighters descending upon the naval base. The battleships, moored in a row along Ford Island, were prime targets for the Japanese aircraft.
The attack on the battleships was intense, with the Japanese bombers and fighters targeting the ships with bombs, torpedoes, and strafing fire. The USS Arizona was among the first ships to be hit, with a 1,760-pound armor-piercing bomb striking its forward magazine, causing a catastrophic explosion. The USS Oklahoma was also severely damaged, with four torpedoes hitting the ship and causing it to capsize.
The Sinking of USS Arizona
The USS Arizona was one of the most heavily damaged ships during the attack, with 1,177 crew members killed in action. The explosion that sank the ship was so powerful that it destroyed the ship's forward magazine, causing a massive fire that burned for several days. The USS Arizona's sinking was one of the most significant losses of the attack, and it remains one of the most iconic images of the Pearl Harbor attack.
The Sinking of USS Oklahoma
The USS Oklahoma was another battleship that suffered significant damage during the attack. The ship was hit by four torpedoes, which caused it to capsize, resulting in the loss of 415 crew members. The USS Oklahoma's sinking was a significant blow to the U.S. Pacific Fleet, as it was one of the most modern battleships in the fleet.
Aftermath and Legacy
The attack on Pearl Harbor resulted in significant losses for the U.S. Pacific Fleet, with four battleships sunk and several others damaged. The attack also led to a formal declaration of war by the United States against Japan, drawing the country into World War II.
The battleships sunk at Pearl Harbor are now remembered as a symbol of American sacrifice and bravery. The USS Arizona Memorial, built over the sunken ship, is one of the most iconic landmarks in Hawaii, and it serves as a reminder of the lives lost during the attack.
Gallery of Pearl Harbor Battleships
Pearl Harbor Battleships Image Gallery
What was the significance of the battleships sunk at Pearl Harbor?
+The battleships sunk at Pearl Harbor represented the mainstay of the U.S. Pacific Fleet's firepower. Their loss was a significant blow to the U.S. Navy and had a profound impact on the outcome of World War II.
How many battleships were sunk at Pearl Harbor?
+Four battleships were sunk at Pearl Harbor: USS Arizona, USS Oklahoma, USS California, and USS West Virginia.
What was the aftermath of the attack on Pearl Harbor?
+The attack on Pearl Harbor led to a formal declaration of war by the United States against Japan, drawing the country into World War II. The attack also resulted in significant losses for the U.S. Pacific Fleet, with four battleships sunk and several others damaged.
We hope you have enjoyed this historical account of the battleships sunk at Pearl Harbor. The attack on December 7, 1941, was a pivotal moment in modern history, and its legacy continues to be felt today. We invite you to share your thoughts and comments on this article, and to explore our other historical articles on World War II and the U.S. Navy.