Explore the ships sunk at Pearl Harbor in a historic overview of the infamous 1941 attack. Learn about the USS Arizona, USS Oklahoma, and other battleships and vessels that fell victim to the surprise assault, and discover the significance of this pivotal event in World War II history.
The surprise military strike by the Imperial Japanese Navy on the United States naval base at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, on December 7, 1941, is one of the most pivotal events in modern history. The attack, which killed over 2,400 Americans and led to the United States' entry into World War II, resulted in the sinking of numerous ships and damage to many more. In this article, we will explore the ships sunk at Pearl Harbor, examining the historic context of the attack, the vessels that were lost, and the impact of the tragedy on the war effort.
The Japanese Attack on Pearl Harbor
The attack on Pearl Harbor was a carefully planned and executed operation, aimed at crippling the United States Pacific Fleet and preventing the U.S. from interfering with Japanese expansionist policies in Asia. On the morning of December 7, 1941, a wave of Japanese bombers and fighter planes descended upon the naval base, catching American forces by surprise. The attack lasted for approximately two hours, during which time numerous ships were sunk or damaged, and thousands of lives were lost.
Ships Sunk at Pearl Harbor
A total of 19 U.S. Navy ships were sunk or damaged during the attack on Pearl Harbor. The following is a list of the ships that were sunk:
- USS Arizona (BB-39) - battleship
- USS Oklahoma (BB-37) - battleship
- USS California (BB-44) - battleship
- USS West Virginia (BB-48) - battleship
- USS Utah (AG-16) - battleship (converted to a target ship)
- USS Raleigh (CL-7) - light cruiser
- USS Helena (CL-50) - light cruiser
- USS Cassin (DD-372) - destroyer
- USS Downes (DD-375) - destroyer
- USS Oglala (CM-4) - minelayer
- USS Keosanqua (AT-38) - tugboat
USS Arizona (BB-39)
The USS Arizona was a Pennsylvania-class battleship that was commissioned in 1915. On the morning of December 7, 1941, the Arizona was moored at Ford Island, Pearl Harbor, when it was struck by a 1,760-pound armor-piercing bomb. The explosion and subsequent fires resulted in the deaths of 1,177 crew members, making it the single greatest loss of life during the attack.
USS Oklahoma (BB-37)
The USS Oklahoma was a Nevada-class battleship that was commissioned in 1914. On December 7, 1941, the Oklahoma was moored at Ford Island, Pearl Harbor, when it was struck by four torpedoes. The ship capsized and sank, resulting in the deaths of 415 crew members.
USS California (BB-44)
The USS California was a Tennessee-class battleship that was commissioned in 1921. On December 7, 1941, the California was moored at Ford Island, Pearl Harbor, when it was struck by two torpedoes. The ship sank, resulting in the deaths of 100 crew members.
Impact of the Attack on Pearl Harbor
The attack on Pearl Harbor had a profound impact on the United States and the world. The loss of life and the destruction of the U.S. Pacific Fleet led to a formal declaration of war against Japan, and subsequently, against Germany and Italy. The attack also led to a significant increase in U.S. military spending and the mobilization of American industry for the war effort.
Gallery of Pearl Harbor Ships
Pearl Harbor Ships Gallery
Conclusion
The attack on Pearl Harbor was a pivotal moment in world history, leading to the United States' entry into World War II and the loss of thousands of lives. The ships sunk at Pearl Harbor serve as a reminder of the sacrifices made during this period, and the importance of remembering and honoring those who served. As we reflect on this historic event, we are reminded of the importance of diplomacy, international cooperation, and the need to learn from the past to build a more peaceful future.
We invite you to share your thoughts and comments about the attack on Pearl Harbor and its significance in history. What do you think is the most important lesson that can be learned from this event? Share your perspectives and engage in a discussion with others in the comments section below.