Nagasaki: The Forgotten Bomb

This book, first published in 1970, examines the atomic bombing of Nagasaki, which killed or wounded most of its population. It follows the US decision to use the second bomb and the choice of Nagasaki as its target. It provides the definitive text on the bombings using diaries, written accounts, and testimonies of Japanese civilians.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 316 pages
Publication date: 15 March 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This book, first published in 1970, delves into the devastating atomic bombing of Nagasaki, which left an entire industrial city in ruins and caused the loss of life for the majority of its population. Following the bombing of Hiroshima, Nagasaki has largely been overshadowed in public memory. This book explores the decision by the United States to employ the second bomb and the choice of Nagasaki as its target. It follows the path of the bomber as it traverses the skies above Nagasaki, culminating in the tragic events that unfolded. By utilizing diaries, written accounts, and the testimonies of hundreds of Japanese civilians who miraculously survived the bombing, this book emerges as the definitive resource on the Nagasaki atomic bomb.

Introduction:
The atomic bombing of Nagasaki, which occurred on August 9, 1945, is a haunting chapter in human history. Following the bombing of Hiroshima on August 6, the United States dropped the second atomic bomb on Nagasaki, resulting in the deaths of an estimated 70,000 to 80,000 people. This bombing, which took place just three days after the surrender of Japan, was intended to demonstrate the power of the atomic bomb and to force Japan to surrender unconditionally.

The Decision to Drop the Bomb:
The decision to drop the bomb on Nagasaki was made by President Harry S. Truman and his top military advisors. The bomb was dropped from an American B-29 bomber named Enola Gay, which flew from the island of Tinian in the Pacific Ocean. The bomb was detonated at an altitude of 1,500 feet above the city, and the resulting explosion destroyed much of the city's infrastructure and killed or injured thousands of people.

The Targeting of Nagasaki:
The decision to target Nagasaki was influenced by several factors. First, the city was a major industrial center, producing war materiel for Japan's military forces. Second, the city was home to a large Japanese military garrison, which was believed to be preparing for a counterattack against the United States. Third, the city was located close to the Japanese naval base at Hiroshima, making it an important target for the United States.

The Bombing:
The bombing of Nagasaki was a horrific event that left a lasting impact on the city and its residents. The bomb exploded with a force of 20,000 tons of TNT, equivalent to 100,000 tons of dynamite. The resulting explosion destroyed much of the city's infrastructure, including homes, schools, hospitals, and factories. The bomb also caused widespread fires and caused the roofs of many buildings to collapse, trapping people inside.

The Aftermath:
The aftermath of the bombing was devastating. The city was left in ruins, and the majority of its population was killed or injured. Many people were left homeless, and the survivors faced a long and difficult recovery process. The bomb also caused widespread radiation exposure, which led to a range of health problems, including cancer and other long-term illnesses.

The Legacy:
The bombing of Nagasaki has left a lasting legacy. It is considered one of the most significant events of the 20th century, and it has helped to shape the world we live in today. The bombing has also raised important questions about the use of nuclear weapons and the morality of war.

Conclusion:
The atomic bombing of Nagasaki was a tragic event that left a lasting impact on the city and its residents. It is important to remember the lessons of this event and to work towards a world that is free from the threat of nuclear weapons and war.

Weight: 590g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032047485