Atomic Bomb Debate
1) Make a list of the major arguments for and against the use of the
atomic bomb using p.454 in your book and the websites below (bullet
points are fine - do NOT just copy websites).
2) Write a paragraph arguing for or against Truman's decision to use
the atomic bomb. Be ready to debate this decision tomorrow.
Key Question:
Was President Harry Truman correct in his decision to drop atomic bombs on the cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki?
Sub-Questions:
What was the main reason the U.S. dropped the bomb on Japan?
What other reasons factored into this decision?
Was the bomb necessary to end the war?
Were there other options? Why or why not?
Was "unconditional surrender" necessary? Why or why not?
Is it okay for civilians to be targeted in times of war?
Is it okay for entire cities/countries to be targeted during times of war?
Should the decision be a moral or military decision?
The decision to use the bomb has been much more criticized globally than in the U.S. Why do you think that is?
The decision to use the bomb has been much more criticized today in the U.S. than in 1945. Why do you think that is?