1. War in the Pacific in 1944
The importance of Rabaul – naval base for Japanese fleet.
Decision to blockade Rabaul.
Battle for the Gilbert Islands. Assault at Tarawa – November 20-23, From 1000 to 3000 Americans were killed during the battle, but Japanese garrison was virtually swept – only 17 soldiers from nearly 5000 survived.
Rabaul is under blockade.
Japanese decide to withdraw their fleet from Rabaul.
Bombing Rabaul from the air.
Importance of blockade.
Japanese continue to defend island, which already lost its strategic importance, till the end of hostilities.

2. The Naval Battle in the Marianas
Japanese continuing to believe in successful outcome, though worried about the American breakthrough in their defence in Rabaul and Gilbert Islands.
Japanese planning for the crucial naval battle, which they hoped would become victorious. It was called Sho – ‘victory’.
Preparing fleet under the command of Admiral Ozawa. 11 aircraft-carriers and 5 battleships prepared to repeat success in Pearl Harbour.
American fleet under the command of Admiral Mitscher much stronger – 15 aircraft-carriers and 7 battleships, planes better than Japanese ones and pilots much more experienced.
Beginning of battle. Americans gain air superiority and shot 400 Japanese planes on June 19 (‘Big Turkey shoot’). At the same time 2 Japanese aircraft carriers were sunk by American submarines. 1 more was sunk on next day. Japanese fleet retreates.
Capturing Guam – August 10, 1944.

3. The Battle of Leyte Planning recapture of Philippines.
Landing at Leyte – October 1944.
Leyte captured, only 50 American soldiers were killed.
Japanese decision to risk their fleet and send it to Leyte.
First day of the battle – October 24, Admiral Halsey’s aircraft-carriers defeated Admiral Ozawa’s fleet and sank 4 Japanese aircraft-carriers.
Admiral Sprague completely humiliated Admiral Kurita’s fleet during October battles. Japanese used suicide pilots – “Kamikaze”.
Results of the Battle.

4. The War in China The only place where Japanese advance - China.
Japanese summer offensive. Chennault’s air bases forced to be evacuated.
Chinese army cannot perform any operation by just its own strength.
Clashes between Nationalists and Communists.
Change of American representative with Chiang Kai-shek. Wedermeyer replaces Stilwell.