The Japanese Gamble: 1937-1941

What were the options believed by the Japanese leadership during 1937-1941?

• Japan could abandon its ambitions in the Pacific, Southeast Asia, and China.

• They could attempt a compromise with the United States and hope for concessions.

• It could take military action.

Which locations were targeted for simultaneous attacks according to Admiral Yamamoto's plan?

• US islands of Wake and Guam; British Malaya, Burma, and Hong Kong; the Dutch East Indies; and the American Philippines.

• US Pacific fleet at Pearl Harbor.

• Japan’s aircraft carrier fleet.

What was the expected outcome of the attack on Pearl Harbor according to Yamamoto's plan?

• To force the United States into a peace settlement

• To destroy the US Pacific Fleet and prevent American interference in Japan's expansion

• To capture Hawaii and use it as a base for further operations

• To demonstrate Japan's military superiority to the world

What was not destroyed during the attack?

• Seven heavy cruisers were also at sea. Only two battleships were wholly destroyed.

• They failed to hit American fuel depots.

• They did not destroy the US submarine base.

• The three American aircraft carriers were not at Pearl!

What was the impact of the loss of Malaya and Singapore in February 1942 on western morale?

• It boosted western morale significantly.

• It had no impact on western morale.

• It caused a severe blow to western morale.

• It led to a minor decrease in western morale.

What was the Allies' fear regarding Japan's movement during World War II?

• Japan would move east toward India

• Japan would move west toward US possessions in the Pacific

• Japan would remain neutral

• Japan would ally with Germany

What was the third strategic option considered by Japan in 1942?

• Thrust westward into the Indian Ocean

• Continued push to the south

• Strike against the last American outpost

What action did Japan consider regarding Madagascar during World War II?

• Engage the US fleet.

• Seize Madagascar from the French.

• Advance into the Indian Ocean.

Where did the Japanese plan call for attacks to disrupt the supply flow to MacArthur in Australia?

• Midway Atoll

• Coral Sea

• Guadalcanal

• Philippines

What was significant about the Battle of the Coral Sea?

• It was the first naval battle fought entirely with aircraft.

• It was the largest tank battle in history.

• It marked the end of World War I.

• It was the first battle where nuclear weapons were used.