Question

japan attacked pearl harbor in order to...
a force the united states to negotiate.
b avoid war by completely destroying the u.s. in one day.
c destroy the fleet at pearl harbor and make future attacks easier.
d start a prolonged conflict that would give them the advantage over the u.s.

Explanation:

Japan's attack on Pearl Harbor was a military - strategic move. The main goal was to destroy the U.S. Pacific Fleet at Pearl Harbor. By doing so, Japan hoped to prevent the U.S. fleet from interfering with its planned military expansion in Southeast Asia and the Pacific. This would make Japan's future military attacks in the region easier.

• Option A: Japan did not attack to force negotiation. In fact, the attack was a surprise and a move towards war, not negotiation.
• Option B: It was impossible to completely destroy the U.S. in one day. The U.S. had vast resources, a large population, and a strong industrial base.
• Option D: Japan did not aim for a prolonged conflict. A prolonged conflict with the U.S. was not in Japan's best interest as the U.S. had more long - term potential in terms of resources and production.

Answer:

C. destroy the fleet at Pearl Harbor and make future attacks easier.