Why did President Truman decide to use the bombs on Japan?
To show America's power
To send fear to other countries
To save lives by avoiding an invasion
To make sure they forced total surrender
1 answer
President Truman decided to use the atomic bombs on Japan for several reasons. Firstly, it was believed that an invasion of Japan would result in very high casualties on both sides. The Japanese were showing no signs of surrendering and were making it clear to the allies that they would fight until the bitter end. Secondly, using the atomic bombs would show Japan the power of the United States, hopefully leading to a quick surrender. Thirdly, it was thought that using the atomic bombs would demonstrate to the Soviet Union that the United States had a weapon of immense power and would send a message of deterrence to the Soviet Union. Finally, Truman believed that using the atomic bombs would bring a swift end to the war, avoiding a prolonged conflict and saving many lives in the long run.