Japan's relationship with the United States prior to U.S. involvement in World War II can be best described as tense due to Japanese aggression in East Asia. Here's why:
1. **Tension due to Japanese Aggression:** Japan's aggressive expansion in East Asia, including its invasion of Manchuria in 1931 and further expansion into China in the late 1930s, strained its relationship with the United States. These actions were seen as threats to regional stability and the interests of the U.S. in the Pacific.
2. **Escalation of Tensions:** The United States responded to Japan's aggression by imposing economic sanctions, such as the embargo on oil exports to Japan. These measures were taken in protest against Japan's expansionist policies and further contributed to the tense atmosphere between the two countries.
3. **Pearl Harbor Attack:** The culmination of this tense relationship was the surprise attack by Japan on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, which led to the U.S. officially entering World War II against Japan. This event marked a turning point in the relations between Japan and the United States, leading to a state of war between the two nations.
In summary, prior to U.S. involvement in World War II, Japan's relationship with the United States was characterized by tension due to Japanese aggression in East Asia, ultimately leading to the outbreak of hostilities between the two countries.
