Joseph’s review of Downfall: The End of the Imperial Japanese Empire > Likes and Comments

Thanks for your usual thorough review! For what it is worth I know many Japanese who believe the A bombs were used becasue of racial prejudice. They argue that the US never would have used them against Germany the timing was different, of course. And it would have been horrible for both sides had an invasion of Kyushu taken place. But that is how they feel about it.

Two companion books you might find worthwhile: Hirohito and the Making of Modern Japan by Bix covers more than just the war. But he made it very clear that Hirohito was not a passive victim of the military as is commonly held. Embracing Defeat by Dower is an excellent review of the Occupation, etc.

Thanks again and cheers!

Thanks!

I can see why they would think that, but it's not historically correct given that the bombs were originally developed for use against Germany.

I've read Dower, but not Bix. Will snag it!!!

Bix’s book is slow going in places because he includes a lot of people unknown to me. But I think he makes his argument quite effectively.

At the risk of TMI, I will recommend two other books related to how the Japanese dealt with the loss of WWII. Orr’s Victims as Heroes takes a historical approach. Hashimoto’s The Long Defeat takes a sociological one. I know you re busy teaching and pursuing your own research/writitng. But I look forward to your reviews of any of these three books. Take care.

This is great! Much appreciated Richard.