The fighting in the Pacific began as a Japanese surprise attack on Pearl Harbor occurred on December 7, 1941. Simultaneously, other Japanese forces attacked the British colonies of Hong Kong. The Battle, also known as the Battle of Hong Kong was fought from December 8 to 25 of 1941 after Japan strategically invaded it, in hopes of ruling Asia. The Canadians courageously fought to defend the British colony as it would earn them great respect and gradually lead to their independence as a country. Unfortunately, the defense of Hong Kong did lead to the death of 290 Canadian soldiers in only 17 and a half days of battle. Furthermore, the aftermath of surrendering to the Japanese forces led to a reign of terror as they assaulted Allied soldiers and nurses from hospitals. Surviving Allied soldiers were also taken as prisoners of war where …show more content…
The Japanese army consisted of 50,000 to 60,000 soldiers who were all well trained and toughened by years of war in China. Compared to the Allied troops who only had a combined total of 14, 000 troops, 1,975 of them being Canadian, the Japanese army had a huge advantage in numbers. Due to the overwhelming number of Japanese soldiers, reinforcements were always available. This benefited the Japanese because while charging at defending machine guns “[they] went down like wheat and still kept coming.” Furthermore, the Japanese military force had full air domination after the targeted Royal Air Force planes were destroyed. The combination of countless well trained veterans and a strong air force was prominent during the invasion of Hong Kong. It was a significant as it granted the Japanese invasion the ability to overwhelm the defending Allied forces. In 17 and a half days of battle and two requests of surrender by the Japanese forces, the Canadians stationed in Hong Kong were forced to