Question

As you read this passage, look for the parts of an argument.

On 6 August 1945 the United States exploded an atomic bomb over Hiroshima and revealed to the world in one blinding flash the start of the atomic age. As the meaning of this explosion and the nature of the force unleashed became apparent, a chorus of voices rose in protest against the decision that opened the Pandora's box of atomic warfare.

The decision to use the atomic bomb was made by President Truman. There was never any doubt of that and despite the rising tide of criticism Mr. Truman took full responsibility for his action. Only recently succeeded to the Presidency after the death of Roosevelt and beset by a multitude of problems of enormous significance for the postwar world, Mr. Truman leaned heavily on the advice of his senior and most trusted advisers on the question of the bomb. But the final decision was his and his alone.

Which claim is this argument written to support?

The death of President Roosevelt created conflict as his vice-presiden took office during wartime.

People in the United States protested the use of an atomic bomb from the beginning.

President Truman made the decision to use of the first atomic bomb, in spite of protests.

The first atomic bomb used as a weapon of war was dropped on Hiroshima in 1945.

Answer 1

"President Truman made the decision to use of the first atomic bomb, in spite of protests."

The passage explicitly states the decision "was made by President Truman," that "he took full responsibility" and that this occurred "despite the rising tide of criticism" (protests).