Kamikaze: Japan's Last Bid for Victory

The book explores the Japanese concept of Kamikaze, the deliberate self-sacrifice of life in the cause of victory, and its roots in the samurai tradition of fighting for their master or nation. By late 1944, the Japanese had proved themselves fanatical, and the actions of the Kamikaze Corps of pilots from the Leyte Gulf battle onwards took matters to a new level. Over 1000 kamikaze airmen perished during the invasion of the Philippines in early 1945 and the Battle of Okinawa.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 24 January 2022
Publisher: Pen & Sword Books Ltd

This captivating book delves into the intricate concept of Kamikaze, the profound act of self-sacrifice in the pursuit of victory. While it may be difficult for American and European adversaries to comprehend, this mindset finds its origins in the samurai tradition, where warriors would risk their lives for their master or nation, regardless of personal safety. By late 1944, the Japanese had already demonstrated their unwavering fanaticism, but the actions of the Kamikaze Corps of pilots during the Battle of Leyte Gulf and subsequent conflicts took this commitment to a new extreme. Allied forces were astounded to face widespread deliberate suicide attacks by pilots, which continued during the invasion of the Philippines in early 1945 and reached a climax during the Battle of Okinawa from April to June 1945. Tragically, over 1000 kamikaze airmen lost their lives in these suicidal missions. This book provides a graphic and harrowing account of these suicide attacks and the devastating toll they took on life and naval vessels. The author's in-depth exploration of the historical and cultural factors that drove this seemingly reckless courage is both enlightening and essential.

Weight: 400g
Dimension: 157 x 233 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781399000246