Encyclopaedia Britannica Presents: WWII Infographic Explainers: Battle of Midway, significant events of June 4, 1943

On June 4, during the Battle of Midway, Japanese planes attacked Midway, prompting American carriers to launch torpedo and bomber aircraft. Despite initial failures due to ineffective torpedoes, American dive bombers later destroyed three Japanese carriers. The last Japanese carrier, Hiryu, damaged the Yorktown, but was eventually destroyed by American forces, marking a pivotal victory.

What time did the Japanese planes begin their attack on Midway?

• 6:30 AM

• 7:00 AM

• 7:15 AM

• 9:20 AM

Why were the American torpedo bombers initially ineffective against the Japanese fleet?

• They were intercepted by Japanese fighters

• Their torpedoes failed to explode

• They attacked the wrong target

• They ran out of fuel

What was the strategic impact of the second wave of American torpedo bombers?

• They captured a Japanese carrier

• They drew Japanese air patrols to lower altitudes

• They forced Japanese planes to land

• They destroyed the Japanese fleet

Which American aircraft carrier was severely damaged by the Japanese attack?

• Lexington

• Yorktown

• Hornet

• Enterprise

What was the outcome of the final major air strike of the day?

• The battle ended in a stalemate

• The American fleet was defeated

• The Hiryu was destroyed

• The Japanese fleet retreated