What was considered the turning point in the Pacific campaign during World War II?

The Battle of Midway is recognized as the turning point in the Pacific campaign during World War II due to its significant strategic implications. Fought from June 4 to June 7, 1942, this battle marked a decisive victory for the United States and was pivotal in shifting the balance of power in the Pacific theater.

Prior to Midway, Japan had achieved a series of victories, rapidly expanding its control across the Pacific. However, the United States was able to decipher Japanese communications and anticipate their attack on Midway Atoll. As a result, American forces were prepared and successfully ambushed the Japanese fleet, sinking four aircraft carriers and inflicting severe losses on their naval capabilities.

This defeat hindered Japan's offensive capabilities and marked the beginning of a series of US offensives that would ultimately lead to the gradual reclaiming of territory lost to Japan. Following Midway, the United States adopted an offensive strategy known as "island hopping," effectively creating a path toward Japan and eventually leading to its defeat.

The other battles listed, while important, do not carry the same level of significance in terms of altering the course of the war in the Pacific. The Battle of Coral Sea was the first naval battle where aircraft carriers engaged each other, but it