Question 106 of 128 American History
Why did the United States enter World War II?
Answers USCIS accepts
- (Bombing of) Pearl Harbor
- Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor
- To support the Allied Powers (England, France, and Russia)
- To oppose the Axis Powers (Germany, Italy, and Japan)
Give any one of these answers at your interview.
The United States entered World War II because Japan attacked Pearl Harbor, and to support the Allies against the Axis Powers.
What it means
On December 7, 1941, Japan bombed the U.S. naval base at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. The next day the U.S. declared war, joining England, France and Russia against Germany, Italy and Japan.
“Japan attacked Pearl Harbor” is the easiest answer.
Memory tip: WWII: Pearl Harbor, December 7, 1941.
Quiz yourself
Why did the United States enter World War II?
Multiple choice is for study only. The real civics test is spoken: the officer asks, you answer out loud.
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Official source: USCIS M-1778 (09/25), 128 Civics Questions and Answers (2025 version). Last checked: .