Essay On The Dropping Of The Atomic Bomb

701 Words2 Pages

During the final stages of World War II the United States dropped two atomic bombs on the country of Japan. On August 6, 1945 America dropped the first nuclear weapon ever used in war, an atomic bomb by the name of “little boy.” It killed approximately eighty thousand people, not including the amount of people that died due to the radiation exposure. Then on August 9, 1945 America dropped its second atomic bomb by the name of “fatman” that killed roughly forty thousand people. The dropping of the atomic bombs lead to Emperor Hirohito announcing Japan’s surrender in the war on August 15, 1945. “Why We Dropped the Bomb” written by Gar Alperovitz discusses the use of the atomic bombs, why they were used, and how it helped America gain political power. “Thank God for the Atom Bomb” written by Paul Fussel discusses how the atomic bombs were used to save lives against the Japanese. Gar Alperovitz’s article is a more persuasive piece compared to Paul Fussel’s article, because it provides facts and examples that help us understand why America used the atom bomb and how it helped America’s political status. Alperovitz’s article “Why We Dropped the Bomb” discusses the reasons why the U.S. actually dropped the atomic bomb and whether or not it was used for political power. Alperovitz uses quotes and examples to prove that the dropping of the atomic bomb was not necessary. Alperovitz cites Eisenhower’s opinion that dropping the bomb was “completely unnecessary” (Alperovitz 1976). The author cites government officials to show that the use of the atomic bomb was known not to be necessary. Alperovitz cites General Eisenhower stating his opinion to the Secretary of War: “I told him I was against it on two counts. First, the Japanese were ready ... ... middle of paper ... ...r for you to truly understand just how important the dropping of the bomb was. He writes, “In general, the principle is, the farther from the scene of horror, the easier the talk” (Fussel 1988). In conclusion, Fussel uses examples of “war-culture” to justify America’s decision of the dropping of the bomb and he uses statistics without any actual evidence supporting them. “Why We Dropped the Bomb” by Gar Alperovitz is a much stronger argument compared to “Thank God for the Atom Bomb” by Paul Fussel because of its reliable information that is backed up by facts and evidence. Fussel uses statistics that hold no proof or background. He uses examples of Japanese cruelty as a justification of the killing of thousands of people with the use of the atom bomb. Alperovitz’s argument persuasive in its formal tone and uses facts instead of personal opinions and calculations.

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