Encyclopaedia Britannica Presents: WWII Infographic Explainers: Battle of Midway, context

The Battle of Midway, fought in June 1942, marked a pivotal moment in World War II, fulfilling a prophecy by Israel Yamamoto about the US's industrial power. The US achieved a significant victory due to superior intelligence, having broken the Japanese naval code. Midway Island, strategically located between Hawaii and Japan, was crucial for both nations. The battle was primarily fought with aircraft, and the US leveraged its intelligence to position its fleet advantageously. Submarines played a key role, harassing the Japanese fleet. The battle introduced new carrier warfare tactics, as the opposing fleets never directly engaged.

What was the prophecy made by Israel Yamamoto regarding the United States?

• The U.S. would become a neutral party in the war.

• The U.S. would eventually overpower Japan due to its industrial strength.

• The U.S. would form an alliance with Japan.

• The U.S. would focus on European conflicts.

Why was Midway Island considered a key strategic point?

• It was the largest island in the Pacific.

• It was a major economic hub.

• It had the most advanced military technology.

• It was the only land between Hawaii and Japan in the central Pacific.

How did the United States gain a strategic advantage over Japan in the Battle of Midway?

• By using advanced nuclear weapons.

• By deploying more troops than Japan.

• By breaking the Japanese naval code.

• By forming an alliance with other Pacific nations.

What role did U.S. submarines play in the Battle of Midway?

• They transported troops to Midway Island.

• They harassed the Japanese fleet and scored significant hits.

• They were used for reconnaissance missions only.

• They were not involved in the battle.

What was a significant aspect of the Battle of Midway in terms of naval warfare?

• The surface fleets never directly sighted each other.

• The two fleets engaged in direct ship-to-ship combat.

• The battle was fought entirely with submarines.

• The battle was won by ground troops.