Part 6/9:
The Attack Unfolds: Chaos at Pearl Harbor
On December 7, 1941, chaos reigned at Pearl Harbor. Commander Mitsuo Fuchida, who was responsible for making tactical decisions, had two plans ready—one for a surprise attack and another if the U.S. forces caught wind of the initiative. Fuchida mistakenly signaled for a more cautious approach, when instead he should have confirmed a surprise attack plan. This misjudgment contributed to a less effective assault than originally intended.