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The United States and the Bombing of Hiroshima

            Was the bombing of Hiroshima justified or was it an unfortunate yet convenient opportunity to show the world the military dominance of the United States? It is hard to say whether or not America was justified in the bombing of Hiroshima. Many historians argue that it was a needed action to end the war. Others believe that it was an intentional show of power not only to Japan but to the rest of the world. Still others feel that with the astronomical cost in resources and manpower involved with the development of the Atomic Weapons, it was important to use them. Many say that the destruction of Hiroshima and Nagasaki was what caused Japan to surrender. Japan was ready to surrender long before the bombing run of Hiroshima. Naval blockades had cut off any outside resources to the island nation. Their citizens were starving and oil reserves were running very low. However the Japanese wanted to safeguard the position of Emperor Hirohito. Many argue that the bombing of Hiroshima was to force the unconditional surrender of Japan. In the end however, Japan surrendered under the condition that Emperor Hirohito would remain on the throne. .
             There were several targets considered for the deployment of the atomic bomb. Many experts at the time urged the use of offshore targets. However it was determined that the full devastating effect of the atomic bomb would be wasted if not demonstrated on a populated target. This show of Military Might was not only directed toward Japan but also toward Communist China and Russia. The city of Hiroshima was idea because it was surrounded by mountains and the effects of the bomb would be more focused and slightly contained. It was also noted by General Spaatz that Hiroshima was the only target city considered that did not contain POW camps. This declaration by Spaatz, unfortunately pushed Hiroshima to the top of the priority target list. On August 9th, Truman delivered a speech to the American people regarding the use of the Atomic bomb.


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