Were two atomic devices required to end the war with Japan? Essay Example

China, causing massive destruction and bloodshed. Despite this, Japan experienced a cultural and economic resurgence. As a new global power, they formed an alliance with Germany, seizing colonies from the latter's enemies to solidify their alliance. The USA responded with an ultimatum to Japan.

After Japan's bombing of Pearl Harbor, the American south pacific fleet was destroyed, leading to the USA's invasion of Hong Kong. Japan retaliated with a powerful counter-attack, even destroying army hospitals and taking thousands of prisoners who were kept in terrible conditions. Many British residents of Hong Kong were left helpless. This overwhelming success by Japan left the USA reeling in shock as they had underestimated the Japanese army. The Japanese army relished the victory, claiming a vast territory in Asia for Japan.

The Japanese nation was united by a profound affection for their emperor, who issued a statement to the army promising personal prayers for each soldier killed in his name. Dying for the emperor was regarded as an act of honor and surrender was deemed shameful. Soldiers were instructed to take their own lives rather than surrender. Despite being taunted by mocking Americans, the Japanese fought back fiercely when attacked on islands like Okinawa. In New Guinea, they even consumed their dead out of respect. Across Japan, people chose suicide over being captured by the Americans. Suicide missions and kamikaze pilots were used in an attempt to stop the American advance, but it continued unabated as the Japanese refused to give up.

The Japanese army utilized harsh methods, taking root in the land and anticipating the arrival of American troops. The outcome was significant loss of life on both sides, as neither

would concede defeat. A large number of soldiers from allied forces who perished were prisoners of war forced by the Japanese to trek across entire nations in Asia. Despite their actions, the Japanese remained unwavering in their belief that they were righteous. Nevertheless, when they approached Moscow for help with negotiating surrender conditions, the Americans had no alternative but to act because it was too risky not to.

The surrender of Japan followed the use of two atomic bombs, prompting speculation about their necessity in ending the war and whether Japan would have surrendered otherwise. The decision to deploy the bombs was driven by both a desire to win the war and seek retribution for past American suffering. Ultimately, achieving victory in the conflict was deemed paramount.

The mindset of the Japanese people was the first point to consider during the American invasion, as evidenced by Prime Minister Suzuki's statement: "I expect the 100,000,000 people of the glorious empire to join themselves into a shield to protect the emperor and the imperial land from the invader." This statement shows that the Japanese people were not willing to surrender under any circumstances. Both Japanese civilians and soldiers were prepared to fight to the death for their beloved emperor, and thousands of pilots were ready to become kamikazes. American negotiations with such a blinkered and brutal people were impossible. In Japan, the defence of the islands was prioritized above all else, including food production and distribution.

It was evident that a peace treaty was not feasible, thus ruling out the option of a truce. The following course of action would be a customary attack comparable to those previously utilized and

employed by the allies in Europe. Nevertheless, such assaults had previously been ineffective before the bombing commenced. Executing an all-encompassing attack would have resulted in nearly 900,000 American fatalities. Additionally, since the American naval forces stationed in Pearl Harbour were entirely obliterated, the attack would be inadequately supported and lead to even more losses.

Considering that a conventional attack would cause significant loss of life and not be worth the outcome, the Americans had limited options to end the war. As a result, they opted for the untested and hazardous A-bomb as prolonging the war would lead to more suffering on both sides. Although using an atomic bomb could result in massive damage at an unknown cost, it appeared worthwhile to bring about a definite end to the conflict. While this strategic decision is understandable, it could have an impact on America's pride since revenge for Pearl Harbour was partly behind Japan being hit with atomic bombs - these bombs served as a blow to Japan.

The Japanese treatment of American POWs during the war was appalling. The prisoners were subjected to beatings, starvation, and forced marches across Japan, with many dying or being executed. This angered America, particularly after the Japanese rejected a treaty offer. Although these factors may have clouded America's judgment to some extent, it cannot be said that dropping the atomic bomb was a decision that should be regretted. The blame lies squarely with the Japanese, who effectively created their own enemy. Furthermore, the atomic bomb resulted in fewer deaths than the bombing of Tokyo. It is important to note that attacking civilians in total war is considered permissible. The Japanese employed tactics

that violated international laws, and the bombing of cities had already become a common practice following the Blitz and Japanese bombing of China.

It is probable that the allied commanders took into account the effect of the atomic bomb on other nations, including Russia. While direct assaults on Russia were not an option for Americans, utilizing the bomb offered a chance to showcase their might and potentially deter a conflict with the USSR. Despite arguments suggesting Japan didn't have adequate time to surrender, witnessing the devastating power of the atomic bomb gave the USSR enough time to declare war on Japan and avoid confrontation with America. These factors provide additional rationale and validation for dropping atomic bombs on Japan.

Despite arguments in support of using the atomic bomb, there are concerns regarding its deployment. Critics argue that it is morally reprehensible due to the painful deaths and mutilations it causes. The immense destructive power of the bomb also raises questions, with many believing that it should not have been used, especially considering that both target cities were populated by civilians resulting in an overwhelming majority being innocent citizens. Although allowed in total war, targeting civilian areas is typically avoided whenever possible. Japan had already indicated their willingness to negotiate a treaty when the bombs were dropped; despite their brutal actions, they did not attack any civilian areas. Additionally, some suggest that Japan was not given sufficient time to react to the first atomic bomb before the second one was deployed.

According to me, the choice to utilize atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki was based on a thorough examination of numerous factors. From my perspective, employing these weapons

was essential and legitimate in bringing an end to the war with Japan because not doing so may have led to their possible subsequent use, which would be even more horrifying. Currently, we can confidently assume that they will only be used if there is a valid justification. Opting for diplomacy or conventional warfare could have prolonged the conflict for several years, resulting in avoidable loss of life.

It is irrational to favor needless killing of our own people while a bomb kills the Japanese and saves our side from casualties. The nature of war itself is insane, and it's illogical that we're even engaged in it.

Saving the Japanese but having more casualties on our side would be even crazier.