Battle of Midway

About

The Battle of Midway was a pivotal naval engagement in the Pacific Theater of World War II, occurring from June 4 to 7, 1942. It marked a decisive victory for the United States against Japan, significantly altering the course of the war. The Japanese plan, led by Admiral Isoroku Yamamoto, aimed to capture Midway Atoll and lure out the U.S. Pacific Fleet, which had survived the attack on Pearl Harbor. However, U.S. code-breakers uncovered the Japanese plan, allowing the U.S. Navy to prepare an ambush under Admirals Chester Nimitz and Raymond Spruance. The battle resulted in the sinking of four Japanese aircraft carriers (Akagi, Kaga, Soryu, and Hiryu) and a heavy cruiser, with over 3,000 Japanese casualties. The U.S. lost one carrier (Yorktown) and a destroyer (Hammann). This victory marked a turning point in the Pacific War, as Japan's inability to replace its losses contrasted with the U.S.'s robust industrial and training capabilities. The Battle of Midway is regarded as one of the most decisive naval battles in history, shifting the strategic initiative from Japan to the Allies.