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Early American Era(1899-1941) In 1899, a year after defeating Spain in the Spanish-American War, the United States formally acquired Guam and other Spanish territories for the sum of 20 million dollars. Guam was placed under the administration of the Department of Navy. Under American jurisdiction many improvements to the island occurred. These improvements were made in terms of agriculture, public works, health and sanitation, as well as education. The U.S. used Guam as a coaling and communication hub until its invasion by the Japanese on December 8, 1941, just after the infamous bombing of Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. Guam was formally surrendered to the Japanese Imperial Forces on December 10, 1941. For approximately two and a half years, Chamorros were under harsh Japanese rule. Under this rule they were forced to work as laborers and were mandated to learn and speak only Japanese. Rebellion of the Japanese system resulted in severe beatings and in some cases death by beheading. Thirty-one months after Japan invaded and took over the island America stormed back, liberating Guam on July 21, 1944. After three weeks of some of the bloodiest battles fought in World War II, Guam was reclaimed by the United States. Guam strategic location proved invaluable to the U.S. and the island became a major command post for its Western Pacific operations until the end of WWII. For a comprehensive study of Guam's participation in World War II, the War in the Pacific Museum located in the village of Asan is a must see. It is a federally funded facility and is quite impressive.