Prompt & Utter Destruction

Prompt & Utter Destruction: A Book on the Atomic Bombing of Japan

Prompt & Utter Destruction by J. Samuel Walker is a book designed for readers interested in the history of the events surrounding the atomic bombing of Japan or the subject of nuclear weapons in general. The latest edition of the book, which has a gorgeous design, was written clearly to investigate the events that occurred on the ground and influenced President Truman and other Americans to choose atomic bombardment toward the end of the Second World War. The author examines the subject in a series of seven chapters that describe issues related to the atomic war, President Truman’s administration, the relations that existed between the US and the Soviet forces, and the overall concept of the second world war.

The Role of the Second Bomb in Japan’s Decision

The book was notably interesting in the manner it presented the fact that the exact cause for the Japanese to proceed with their forces was the launching of the second bomb. The idea is as opposed to the assumption that it was the Russian entry that caused the move. The author crafts the argument by detailing what transpired in the White House following the meeting that President Truman had with the chief of staffs (Ferrell 3). The decision of invading Kyushu, which was on the southernmost geographical location of the Japan, was reached on June 18, 1945. The initial bond is described to have been a test on the plutonic bomb so as it had been planned to be executed on June 16. What followed was that the Japanese government was spurned in the process after a warning signal was circulated on July 26 from the Conference. It thus meant that the author explicitly acknowledged the fact that the second bomb played a crucial role in the process.

A Myth or a Dilemma?

I, however, disagree with the author when he describes that it is a myth that Truman had to consider the option of using the atomic bomb against Japan. The critique of the author’s stand is based on the description of the bomber Enola Gay that is present in Washington DC. Walker feels that it is mythical to assume that the President had limited choices and argued that the dilemma was centered on invading Japan or to consider the use of the atomic bomb. The author states that the invasion was intended to “shock the Japanese people and government officials with [its] fearful power and terrifying visual effects” (Walker 15). It is noted, however, that critics believe that there was an option of ending the war in entirety and there were not strict limitations (Ferrell 45). In fact, there were three options overall with one being the choice of continuing the conventional bonding as it has been planned and considering it in the naval blockade considerations. The other possibility entailed waiting for the Soviets to enter into the war later through the Pacific. Lastly, there was the choice of altering the commitment that had been accorded to Franklin D. Roosevelt so that the emperor could be allowed to remain even though he did not have the total powers (Ferrell 33). It thus follows that the argument that Walker advocates in the book in the context of dropping the bomb or invading are reliable, but they are not timely enough as they were made following the end of the Second World War. Walker also states that the cost concerning launching an invasion was likely to be less than what came on record later but while this is also authentic, it is not timely enough, and I disagree with the author on these ground. Nevertheless, it is understandable that the motivation for writing the book was to respond to the 1995 commemorations that had continually been cited in the annual events and that needed answers.

The Contradiction in Walker’s Arguments

The author also appears to create a contradiction on the main contentious issues in his book. He asserts his point at one time by claiming that the main reason for the use of atomic bomb was to show might to the Kremlin. Walker outlines the details that he believes prompted the choice that Truman reached and even argues that it was intended to save the lives of the Americans (32). He later states that “the hope that the bomb would help advance American diplomatic objectives, especially in addressing the growing differences with the Soviet Union” (Walker 63). It thus means that the author’s stand is uncertain because it is unlikely that the move was intended to show might while at the same time meant to save the American lives.

An Informative Piece for Undergraduate Studies

The book by Walter titled “Prompt and Utter Destruction: Truman and the Use of Atomic Bombs Against Japan” is an informative piece that explores the subject of America’s attack on Japan towards the end of the Second World War. I feel that the book is preferred for teaching students in their undergraduate studies as it offers controversial issues that can be subject to discussion, and students would enjoy the experience. Overall, the author’s presentation of the book is great, and despite the controversies, it is apparent to the reader that the decision to use the atomic bomb was complicated.

Works Cited

Ferrell. “Prompt and Utter Destruction: Truman and the Use of atomic Bombs against Japan by Samuel Walker.” Indiana Magazine of History 94.3 (1998): n. pag. Print.

Walker, J. Samuel. Prompt and Utter Destruction: Truman and the Use of Atomic Bombs Against Japan. Chapel Hill and London: University of North Carolina Press, 2009. Print.