The second nuclear blast on Japan, somewhat less destructive of human life than in Hiroshima, but nonetheless the last step in forcing Japanese surrender. Nicknamed “Fat Man, ” the bomb was dropped by Maj. Charles W. Sweeney at 10:58 A.M., August 9, 1945. Originally a secondary target, Nagasaki lay among hills that prevented higher fatalities than the still terrifying numbers of 35, 000 initial dead and 40, 000 more fatalities from radiation and injuries. In light of Hiroshima, Nagasaki, and the concurrent Soviet triumph in Manchuria, Emperor Hirohito surrendered on August 14.
See the Introduction, Abbreviations and Pronunciation for further details.
