Atomic Bombings of Japan

The atomic bombings of Japan occurred in August 1945 during World War II when the United States dropped two atomic bombs on the cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. The bombing of Hiroshima on August 6 caused immense destruction and loss of life, followed by the bombing of Nagasaki on August 9. These actions aimed to force Japan's surrender and bring an end to the war. While the bombings led to Japan's capitulation, they also raised ethical concerns due to the high civilian casualties and long-term effects of radiation, profoundly impacting international relations and attitudes toward nuclear weapons.