What event occurred on December 7, 1941?

December 7, 1941, is famously known for the attack on Pearl Harbor, which was a pivotal moment in U.S. history. This surprise military strike by the Imperial Japanese Navy against the United States naval base in Hawaii led to the United States' formal entry into World War II. Prior to this event, the U.S. had maintained a policy of neutrality, despite providing aid to Allied nations. The attack resulted in significant loss of life and damage to the Pacific Fleet, prompting President Franklin D. Roosevelt to call December 7 "a date which will live in infamy." Consequently, the U.S. declared war on Japan the following day, marking a significant turning point in the conflict and ultimately leading to increased U.S. involvement in global affairs.

The other events listed occurred at different times in history: the Treaty of Versailles was signed in 1919 to end World War I, World War II did not end until 1945, and Sputnik, the first artificial satellite, was launched by the Soviet Union in 1957.