The US bombed Hiroshima and Nagasaki Essay Example
The US bombed Hiroshima and Nagasaki Essay Example

The US bombed Hiroshima and Nagasaki Essay Example

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  • Pages: 2 (372 words)
  • Published: January 9, 2018
  • Type: Essay
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The decision to use atomic bombs on Japan was made as a more beneficial alternative to a full-scale invasion of mainland Japan, which would have resulted in the loss of numerous American soldiers. The bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki delivered the message that Japanese ways were misguided, while reparations and assistance with rebuilding were also provided by the US after the war. While it could be argued that bombing Japan was justifiable as retribution, it is important to note that this decision was heavily influenced by the Manhattan Project. At the time, its cost made it the highest government project expenditure in history.

Despite the expenditure of almost $2 billion in taxpayer money, the project remained unfinished at the time of Roosevelt's death in April 1945. Admiral Leahy, who had served as the President's Chief of Staff, expressed his belief that Roosevelt would have utilized

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the project to showcase that it was a valuable investment.

The prevalence of birth defects significantly increased during pregnancy at the time of the bombing. Ongoing studies are investigating the long-term impact of radiation exposure on survivors of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, but evidence regarding generational transmission of birth defects is inconclusive. Survivors and their descendants continue to be anxious due to the bomb's illegal use. In September 1938, The League of Nations passed a resolution that unanimously outlawed intentional bombing of civilian populations in accordance with recognized principles of international law. The resolution emphasized that military objectives should not be bombed from the air.

While acknowledging the legitimacy of military operations, the League warned against indiscriminate bombing that could harm civilians. The use of Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD)

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which violate international law, is considered illegal. Despite this, I believe that using atomic bombs would have been a practical solution for ending the war quickly and preventing further casualties among American troops.

The president's choice to use atomic bombs was responsible for Japan surrendering, which ultimately saved many lives. Continuing the war would have been futile as Japan was known to fight until their last breath, resulting in a higher death toll. In addition to shortening the duration of the war, dropping these weapons also dealt Japan a severe blow due to their immense destructive power.

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