80 Years Later: Looking Back at Hiroshima and Nagasaki Attacks

On this day, 80 years ago, the bombing of Hiroshima occurred. This was a crucial moment in the events of World War II and history. Also, on Saturday, August 9^th, it will be the 80^th anniversary of the bombing of Nagasaki. With the modern world uncertain about the effectiveness of various foreign policies, the anniversary leaves many people pondering certain things. While these were historical events, their commemoration is accompanied by lost lessons from history. Many people, including those still alive who survived Hiroshima, consider these lessons important.

Event

On August 6th and 9th, 1945, the US launched two atomic bombs on the Japanese cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, respectively. One of the primary aims of these bombings was to force Japan’s surrender. This helped end World War II. These attacks, as devastating as they were, set a historical precedent.

Significance

In addition to contributing to the end of World War II, these bombings were very historical because they were the first nuclear weapon attacks. Not to mention, they remain the only ones. Many have claimed that the precedent set by the bombings influenced countries to adopt nuclear artillery. Two years after the attacks, the Cold War began. Additionally, the arms race sped up during the Cold War as nations felt the need to acquire nuclear weapons at all costs. 

Aftermath

In relation to the United States’ aim to end World War II, many claim that the bombing of Hiroshima, and of Nagasaki as well, helped accelerate Japan’s surrender. The bombings also set a precedent, as they introduced nuclear weapons into warfare and ushered in the nuclear age. In fact, these bombings are the first and only time nuclear weapons use is in warfare.

It’s also important to note that the bombings represented a significant shift in military strategy and triggered a nuclear arms race. Two years after the bombings, the Cold War began. One could make the case that the use of nuclear weapons in Hiroshima and Nagasaki led nations to consider using similar artillery. This was to prevent large-scale conflicts. The arms race certainly sped up as various nations felt they needed nuclear weapons at all costs. 

Memorial

A memorial service took place earlier today in Hiroshima, Japan, to mark the 80^th anniversary of the city’s bombing. Although this was a ceremonial occasion, Hiroshima Mayor Kazumi Matsui voiced his concerns. He focused especially on nuclear weapons and military buildup amid Russia’s war with Ukraine and conflicts in the Middle East. “These developments flagrantly disregard the lessons the international community should have learned from the tragedies of history,” he said. “They threaten to topple the peacebuilding frameworks so many have worked so hard to construct.” Matsui seemingly feels there are lessons from Hiroshima’s bombing.

At this memorial, there were living survivors from the bombing. These living survivors are still letting their concerns be heard.

Minoru Suzuto is a 94-year-old survivor of the attack on Hiroshima. “There will be nobody left to pass on this sad and painful experience in 10 years or 20 years,” he said. This indicates the number of survivors of the Hiroshima and Nagasaki bombings is declining. That’s why considering stories told by these living individuals is important before it’s too late.

Is Nuclear War the Answer?

With various international conflicts continuing to flare, the question of what really contributes to everlasting peace remains. There are so many talks about possible cease-fires between nations, but what really is the true catalyst for this? Peace through strength is something that has been highly praised by some since the conclusion of the Cold War. However, there are still lingering doubts among some as to its effectiveness.

Fumiko Doi, 86, survived the bombing of Nagasaki (the 80^th anniversary of that attack is on Saturday), which took place three days after Hiroshima. Doi shares sentiments with many living survivors of the Hiroshima attack and certain Japanese officials. They have concerns about using nuclear weapons for peace. “If one hits Japan, we will be destroyed. If more are used around the world, that’s the end of the Earth,” she said. This quote from Doi reveals more people may fear the universal effects of nuclear war.

Looking Forward

With the anniversary of Hiroshima’s and Nagasaki’s bombings, it’s essential to see how the past can affect the future. Also, consider things such as history repeating itself and lessons lost in time. Your view may be that nuclear weapon use is mandatory, or you may be totally against it. Regardless, those are things to ponder.

As the question of the right route to peace remains, let us remember the significance of Hiroshima and Nagasaki bombings to history. Most importantly, remember those who lost their lives or livelihoods.