July 16th the americans tested the nuclear bomb to kick off the postdam conference with a bang.
Hiroshima was august 6th
August 8th Soviet invasion of Manchura and declaration of war
Nagasaki August 9th
August 14 . Japan indicates surrender
September 2nd Japan signs the 2nd surrender agreement.
I'm not sure why anyone has to look any further than the Manchurian Invasion which occurred from August 8th through august 20th to see that The president did what he thought was necessary in regards to the 2 launchings of atomic bombs.
The Japanese did not send a cease fire agreement to the Armies
in Manchuria. Their Leaders in Manchuria often killed their own people in Suicides rather than surrender and the Soviets continued to rape and Loot on a high scale.
Japan continued to fight by not issuing a cease fire to manchuria
The Soviet invasion plan was well in place before the Soviets War Declaration and it had been their lack of a previous declaration that had given the Japanese more hope than they should have had.
perhaps it was the wrong decision. perhaps it was the right one. regardless at that time there is enough factors Where Truman thought it was necessary.
but its easy to scream racism when you have such a regimented culture entrenched in its people that unique to that Culture.
The postdam conference clearly showcased the Soviets aggressively engaging in expansionism ad there was the same fear this would occur in Asia.
not only that but the Japanese army clearly opposed the surrender of Japan.
here is a translation of the speech played for the people
TO OUR GOOD AND LOYAL SUBJECTS:
After pondering deeply the general trends of the world and the actual conditions obtaining in Our Empire today, We have decided to effect a settlement of the present situation by resorting to an extraordinary measure.
We have ordered Our Government to communicate to the Governments of the United States, Great Britain, China and the Soviet Union that Our Empire accepts the provisions of their Joint Declaration.
To strive for the common prosperity and happiness of all nations as well as the security and well-being of Our subjects is the solemn obligation which has been handed down by Our Imperial Ancestors and which lies close to Our heart.
Indeed, We declared war on America and Britain out of Our sincere desire to ensure Japan's self-preservation and the stabilization of East Asia, it being far from Our thought either to infringe upon the sovereignty of other nations or to embark upon territorial aggrandizement.
But now the war has lasted for nearly four years. Despite the best that has been done by everyone – the gallant fighting of the military and naval forces, the diligence and assiduity of Our servants of the State, and the devoted service of Our one hundred million people – the war situation has developed not necessarily to Japan's advantage, while the general trends of the world have all turned against her interest.
Moreover, the enemy has begun to employ a new and most cruel bomb, the power of which to do damage is, indeed, incalculable, taking the toll of many innocent lives. Should We continue to fight, not only would it result in an ultimate collapse and obliteration of the Japanese nation, but also it would lead to the total extinction of human civilization.
Such being the case, how are We to save the millions of Our subjects, or to atone Ourselves before the hallowed spirits of Our Imperial Ancestors? This is the reason why We have ordered the acceptance of the provisions of the Joint Declaration of the Powers.
We cannot but express the deepest sense of regret to Our Allied nations of East Asia, who have consistently cooperated with the Empire towards the emancipation of East Asia.
The thought of those officers and men as well as others who have fallen in the fields of battle, those who died at their posts of duty, or those who met with untimely death and all their bereaved families, pains Our heart night and day.
The welfare of the wounded and the war-sufferers, and of those who have lost their homes and livelihood, are the objects of Our profound solicitude.
The hardships and sufferings to which Our nation is to be subjected hereafter will be certainly great. We are keenly aware of the inmost feelings of all of you, Our subjects. However, it is according to the dictates of time and fate that We have resolved to pave the way for a grand peace for all the generations to come by enduring the unendurable and suffering what is unsufferable.
Having been able to safeguard and maintain the structure of the Imperial State, We are always with you, Our good and loyal subjects, relying upon your sincerity and integrity.
Beware most strictly of any outbursts of emotion which may engender needless complications, or any fraternal contention and strife which may create confusion, lead you astray and cause you to lose the confidence of the world.
Let the entire nation continue as one family from generation to generation, ever firm in its faith in the imperishability of its sacred land, and mindful of its heavy burden of responsibility, and of the long road before it.
Unite your total strength, to be devoted to construction for the future. Cultivate the ways of rectitude, foster nobility of spirit, and work with resolution – so that you may enhance the innate glory of the Imperial State and keep pace with the progress of the world.
(Hirohito's signature and
Privy Seal)
August 14, 1945
The Emporer made no mention of the Soviet invasion of Manchura but he certainly did point out the bombs
Truman showed the soviets that United states was ready to use the bomb and helped convince the Japanese people that this was the only reasonable conclusion.
It was critical in the Reconstruction of Japan allowing the United States take point on the project and ensure the Soviets involvement was limited.
, if not impressive with regard to imagination (who wouldn't want to to see a show like that?). The one about Justinian walking around the Great Palace headless is a pretty big red flag.
