A Hotlist on Hiroshima and Nagasaki

A Hotlist on Hiroshima and Nagasaki
An Internet Hotlist on Hiroshima

created by The Bomb

Introduction | The Bombings | The Decision

Introduction

One of the most sensitive subjects in modern history is the decision by the United States to drop two atomic bombs over Japan during World War II. It's important to not only understand the destruction and death that occurred at Hiroshima and Nagasaki, but to also understand the decision making process of the American government that led to the decision. A third important aspect only touched on by the links of this hotlist is the aftermath of the bomb - the Cold War and the loom of the atomic cloud. Below are some links that will first offer basic information about the bombings of Nagasaki and Hiroshima, accompanied by some photographs. These links are followed by links about President Harry Truman and his perspective of the atomic bomb.

This hotlist is designed to present both the complexity and the tragedy of the the dropping of the atomic bomb. The student should be able to describe destruction caused by the atomic bombs, espcially the immediate loss of human life and the radiation caused by the bombs that continued to take lives.

The student should also explore of the reasoning of President Truman, as the highest voice of the American government, in the decision to drop two atomic bombs over urban centers of Japan.

After exploring all of the links displayed below, the student should be able to reflect upon Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Because of the nature of the subject, it is perfectly understandable to feel strongly one way or another, but the student should make an effort to reflect on both sides of the issue.

Disclaimer: The links here have been scrutinized for their grade and age appropriateness; however, contents of links on the World Wide Web change continuously. It is advisable that teachers review all links before introducing this activity to students.

The Internet Resources

The Bombings

Remembering Nagasaki - This site contains some touching photos taken by photographer Yosuke Yamahata, but also has a thoughful 'Commentary' section.
The Avalon Project: The Atomic Bombings of Hiroshima & Nagasaki - A good collection of what was behind the decision the drop the atomic bomb over Nagasaki and Hiroshima, and the repercussions.
Hiroshima A-bomb Photo Museum - Another good collection of some photos of the destruction caused by the atomic bomb being dropped over Hiroshima.
A First Person Account of the Bombing of Hiroshima - Another perspective on the the bombing of Hiroshima.

The Decision

Harry Truman's Hiroshima Speech - Truman's speech regarding the dropping of the atomic bomb.
The Harry Truman Diary and Papers - Selections taken from Truman's diary and papers regarding the atomic bomb.

Content by The Bomb, jenni_in_cali@yahoo.com
http://www.kn.sbc.com/wired/fil/pages/listhiroshimth.html
Last revised Mon Nov 17 21:39:25 US/Pacific 2003