Explain why the Battle of Midway was the turning point of the war in the Pacific Theater.
The Japanese gained control of Midway, meaning that it would take the United States many years to
cross the Pacific Ocean.
Holding Midway was key as it served as a base for attacking the Japanese mainland.
The Japanese lost four aircraft carriers during the Battle of Midway. This severely crippled their
offensive capability. After this battle, the United States switched from the defensive to the offensive.
The Japanese lost their two largest battleships, allowing the United States to capture islands held by
the Japanese without fear of being shelled.