Few events in the annals of history are as controversial as the decision to drop atomic bombs on two Japanese cities, Hiroshima and Nagasaki, in August 1945. Yet, at the time, there was great relief among Americans troops and civilians alike. These two bombs were the final, devastating events of World War II.
–President Harry Truman, 1959
–Major General Curtis LeMay, U.S. Army Air Force, September 20, 1945
For an overview of this period in history, watch this short video, Truman and the Atomic Bomb in World War II.
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As you watch this video, write down at least two arguments for and two against the use of atomic weapons to end the war with Japan.
On the following pages, you will learn more about three of the main issues that influenced President Truman’s decision to use atomic bombs to end the war with Japan. After reading about each issue, you will decide whether you agree with Truman’s decision and explain why. At the end of the lesson, and after learning about all three issues, you will have a final opportunity to reconsider your opinion. You will write a short essay to present your position, main arguments, and evidence.