Harry Truman – The President who Changed the Face of Humanity

Harry Truman became president of the United States on April12, 1945 upon the death of Franklin D. Roosevelt. Truman approved the dropping of the atomic bomb on the people of Hiroshima on August 6 and one on the people of Nagasaki on Aug 9, 1945 which led to end of world war II. A total of 129,000-226,000 people died instantly following this devastating act and both these cities of Japan were destroyed beyond recognition. Half of these deaths occurred on the first day of bombing and the remaining died from the effects of burns, radiation, sickness, and other injuries, compounded by illness and malnutrition.

As more information has become available regarding the Japanese fear of losing their emperor, whom they believed was God, and U.S advisors who offered other methods of winning the war, the debate has grown over whether the atomic bombings were necessary to save lives and win the war.

Truman always staunchly defended the atomic bombings. Shortening the war, saving Americans lives, and the revenge are the main reasons he gave for using them. In his public explanation, he said, “having found the bomb we have used it. We have used it against those who attacked us without warning at pearl Harbour, against those who have starved and beaten and executed American prisoners of war, against those who have abandoned all pretense of obeying international laws of warfare. We have used it in order to save the lives of thousands and thousands of young Americans.”

I wish to join the world voices in condemning President Truman’s decision which not only changed the face of humanity but also led to a more sinister nuclear arms race among several countries. The world is now sitting on a volcano which could explode at the slightest whim of another ruthless and reckless leader. I would have advised President Truman to follow the concept of “Vasudhaiva kutumbakan”, which means ‘the world is one family’ and refrain from performing this ghastly act.