Manhattan Project National Historical Park
The Atomic Bombing of Nagasaki
At 11:02 am local time in Japan, a bright flash of light, far brighter than the sun, illuminated the city of Nagasaki through a cloud-covered sky. Soon, a sharp boom rang out. It was August 9, 1945, and the United States had just dropped the plutonium-fueled atomic bomb "Fat Man.”
Shockwaves destroyed the immediate surroundings of the blast’s center. Within 3,000 feet (900 meters) of the bomb's hypocenter, schools, hospitals, places of worship, and other institutions felt the impacts of the bomb. The blast instantly incinerated everything nearby: people, trees, homes, cars, and buildings. Thousands of people were exposed to acute radiation, and at least 40,000 people died as result of the atomic bombing. In addition to the immediate deaths, tens of thousands more people suffered physical and emotional traumas that have not yet healed.
The atomic bombing of Nagasaki is one of only two times an atomic weapon has been intentionally used in war on a human population, following the bombing of Hiroshima just three days prior. In response to the first bombing, Emperor Hirohito directed his Foreign Minister to “make every effort to put an end to the war as soon as possible." While the Japanese discussed how to respond to the bombing of Hiroshima, United States field commanders rushed the assembly and preparation of the second bomb. A meeting of Japan’s war cabinet was scheduled for August 9, 1945, but not before the bomb dropped on Nagasaki.
Image credit: Cpl. Lynn P. Walker, Jr. (Marine Corps) / Public domain
Image description: Battered statues of religious figures sit on top a pile of rubble in a devastated urban area with mountains in the background.
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NATIONAL SPIRIT OF '45 DAY
National Spirit of '45 Day honors the can-do attitude of an entire generation affected by the trials and hardships of World War II. Observed every year on second Sunday in August, communities around the country hold events and memorials. Each one honors those who have inspired us, sacrificed, and preserved our nation for future generations.
#SpiritOf45Day
The day ideally sets out to illustrate the people of the Greatest Generation. Over the years, iconic images have been imprinted on our minds. However, they only tell a part of the story. Still, thousands more remain to be told. Spirit of '45 Day urges us to explore the history. Listen to the stories. Get involved and help preserve the memories of those who lived it.
Around the world, servicemen and women stepped up to the task in the Pacific, Europe, the Mediterranean or Africa. At home, men and women provided valuable food, parts, and labor. Everyone did their part. The youngest of them managed farm work and took on duties on the ...
