Introduction
The decision made by President Truman in 1945 regarding bombing Japan to end WWII has remained a debatable topic to date. The bombing marked the most devastating event in history, which left a significant impact worldwide. People supporting the bombings as the only way the war would have ended argue that it quickly ended WWII, saving millions of lives globally. On the other hand, opponents say that the war was unnecessary, as different conventional approaches could have been used to end the war. Both sides present solid and argumentative views regarding the bombing, which continues to elicit heated debates.
Arguments Supporting the Atomic Bombing of Japan
Bombing Japan was necessary to end the war as early as possible, since they were adamant about not surrendering. By early 1945, the Japanese were sure of defeat, but continued fighting despite their circumstances. Japan kept fighting to establish the terms of surrender with the United States. Dropping the bomb prevented an invasion of the mainland since it facilitated the war’s end.
When the second bomb was dropped, Japan declared a surrender the following day without terms. The destruction of the city and the death of thousands of Japanese civilians forced them to end the war, as they could not risk endangering those who survived. At the same time, the bombings resulted in the loss of many lives who would have taken part in the war to defend Japan. Japanese civilians believed in fighting to the end, even if it meant recruiting the entire nation. Thus, the loss of lives reduced their workforce, forcing them to surrender, which prevented an invasion of the mainland.
Political Motivations and Controversy Surrounding the Bombing
Critics argue that the bombing had more to do with the USSR than Japan as a show of America’s power. Bombing Japan would be a show of strength and a warning to the Soviet Union to recognize America’s might. Thus, Truman bombed the region to end WWII while initiating the beginning of the Cold War. However, Truman decided to use the atomic bomb as a military weapon, which did not involve the USSR.
Although top military advisors like Eisenhower disagreed with the strategy, Truman had experienced Japan’s unwillingness to surrender and how the Japanese fought fiercely to protect their region despite knowing it was a losing battle. The Okinawa battle showed the Japanese’s resilience, which resulted in many American soldiers’ deaths. Insisting on an unconditional surrender aimed at benefiting Japan since it ensured democracy from the emperor, who was a dictator.
At the same time, the Soviet Union would continue being involved in Japan’s affairs, which would compensate them for their sacrifices. Therefore, the bombing was a military approach that could make a significant and lasting impression and facilitate the war’s end.
Devastating Human Impact and Lasting Consequences
Regardless of the triumph, the nuclear bombings had devastating impacts that had never been witnessed before. The bombing was different from others since it resulted in the deaths of 70,000 Japanese civilians in Hiroshima and over 100,000 deaths in Nagasaki. Consequently, the effects of the bombings were felt after the event, where people perished from radiation and burns.
The consequences were more devastating than America’s military had predicted. The bomb’s radiation and its effects were not anticipated. Still, it was felt in a vast region and affected the population to date, which has never been experienced with other bombings.
Conclusion
Although American historians believe dropping the bomb was unnecessary, many Americans believe the move ended the war from a military perspective. The Japanese refused to surrender despite an imminent end that could cause the death of millions from Japan and America. Consequently, earlier approaches and negotiations to end the war were futile, forcing Truman to make a drastic decision. The Japanese surrendered after the second bombing at Nagasaki when they finally felt the impact of the bombings. Thus, the surrender made many Americans believe the bombings effectively ended the war.