What was significant about the attack on Pearl Harbor?

The attack on Pearl Harbor is significant because it demonstrated the effective use of aircraft carriers in naval warfare, marking a pivotal moment in military strategy. The Japanese attack was conducted almost entirely by carrier-based aircraft, showcasing how devastating air power could be when launched from the sea. This operational concept shifted naval warfare from battleships to aircraft carriers as the primary means of naval engagement.

The impact of this attack was profound, as it not only led to the United States' entry into World War II but also changed the dynamics of naval battles for the remainder of the war and beyond. The effective use of aircraft carriers in this attack emphasized their strategic significance and initiated a new era in maritime conflict. This understanding shaped future naval operations and strategies, leading to the dominance of carrier groups in naval fleets for years to follow.