The events of World War II caused major changes to the nation’s territories. The tension in the Pacific was especially prevalent during 1943 between two alliances – the battle of Midway took place (Weinberg 2013). It started in 1942 when Japan’s air force attacked the Allies’ fleet and sank their ships (Weinberg 2013). The attacks were renewed several months later; however, Japan had to evacuate its troops. The Allies needed to stop the advance of the Imperial Japanese army along the Solomon Islands and prevent the occupation of New Guinea.
The crucial Battle of Guadalcanal happened at the beginning of 1943 when Japan lost its military power. Meanwhile, the Allied losses were two times less. This combat remains one of the most critical in the history of Japan and its loss of strategic initiative. It also signifies the transition of the Allies from defense to military actions. In 1944, they lost control of the Mariana Islands and lost the naval battle of Leuthen (Weinberg 2013). As a result, the battle became a turning point in history, yet the American pressure was tangible in the area.
Regardless of the importance of the Guadalcanal battle, the pressure on the Japanese Empire was unrelenting. The U.S. was primarily responsible for the air force invasion and its military potential could easily outperform the Japanese one (Weinberg 2013). In addition, the U.S. forces aimed to stop the Japanese expansion and take over the islands to stop the hopping. Therefore, the result of Japan’s fall is the result of American influence and its desire to take on the strategic initiative. These factors could ensure the Allies victory and its solid positions.
Reference
Weinberg, Gerald. 2013. “Tensions in Both Alliances.” In A World at Arms: A Global History of World War II, 722-750. Cambridge University Press.