What date marks the Battle of Coral Sea?

The Battle of Coral Sea is a significant naval engagement that took place from May 4 to May 8, 1942. This battle is notable for being the first naval conflict in history where aircraft carriers engaged each other at a distance, with neither fleet ever sighting the other. Instead, naval aviation played a crucial role, with planes launched from the carriers delivering the majority of combat power.

The outcome of the Battle of Coral Sea was pivotal in the Pacific Theater of World War II, as it thwarted the Japanese plan to capture Port Moresby in New Guinea, thus helping to secure a strategic advantage for the Allies. This battle also showcased the evolving nature of naval warfare, highlighting the transition from traditional ship-to-ship confrontations to carrier-based engagements.

Understanding this date and the battle's significance enriches knowledge of naval history and the strategic developments during World War II.