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Logic Behind Pearl Harbor Attack
- Tojo justified attacking Pearl Harbor without warning as essential for surprise and victory.
- He viewed the attack itself as the declaration of war, despite breaking diplomatic protocols.
Oil Embargo as a War Catalyst
- Japan was highly dependent on American oil, receiving 85% from California.
- Cutting off oil supplies forced Japan to either surrender or fight America for a negotiation.
Power of Japan's Military Police
- Tojo controlled the Kempeitai, Japan's military police enforcing strict ideology and harsh discipline.
- This force suppressed dissent, eliminated opposition, and ran brutal POW camps.