One interpretation treats Pearl Harbor as an opening attritional blow intended to weaken the U.S. fleet before it crossed the Pacific toward the Philippines. A Cannae-style destruction of the fleet would follow once it came within reach. The attack went too well in some respects but failed to remove the American carrier force or disable the United States for years. Japan continued to win operations without securing the negotiated pause its leaders hoped would allow them to strengthen their position. Midway became another attempt to compel a decisive fleet action, with a result that favoured the Americans.
Chapter · 1:35-6:05
Pearl Harbor and Japan's unfinished victory
Japan's early victories weakened Allied forces without creating the negotiated pause its leaders sought, making Midway another attempt to force a decisive fleet action.