Which two islands were invaded by the Japanese after the attack on Pearl Harbor?

The invasion of Guam and Wake by the Japanese following the attack on Pearl Harbor is a critical part of World War II history. Both islands were strategically important in the Pacific theater, serving as critical refueling and supply points for the Japanese military.

Guam, which was a U.S. territory at the time, was attacked on December 8, 1941, just one day after the Pearl Harbor attack. The Japanese forces quickly overwhelmed the island's defenses, leading to a rapid occupation.

Similarly, Wake Island was attacked shortly afterwards on December 8 and 9, 1941. The defenders put up strong resistance, but ultimately, the strategic importance and overwhelming numbers of the Japanese troops led to its capture.

The significance of these invasions lies in their strategic implications, as they allowed Japan to establish a stronger foothold in the Pacific, ultimately impacting U.S. military strategy and planning in the ensuing battles. This knowledge is essential for understanding the early phases of the Pacific War in World War II.