The Story The bomb that changed the world
Aug 7, 2025
Join Jack Blackburn, a History Correspondent for The Times, and Tom Whipple, the Science Editor, as they delve into the harrowing events surrounding the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. They discuss the decision-making process behind using such devastating weapons against a nation already on the brink of defeat. The podcast also explores how public opinion evolved in the wake of these bombings, reflecting on the moral dilemmas and the complex legacy that continues to shape discussions on nuclear warfare today.
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Officer's First View of Hiroshima
- A Japanese officer flew to Hiroshima after losing contact and saw terrible destruction unlike anything before.
- The explosion wiped out communications and caused widespread, unprecedented devastation.
Japan's Imperial War Motive
- Japan entered World War II seeking imperial expansion for resources like oil.
- The attack on Pearl Harbor was a strategic move to cripple the U.S. Navy and secure dominance in Asia.
Manhattan Project Origins and Science
- The Manhattan Project represented the U.S.'s commitment to building an atomic bomb before other powers.
- Scientific breakthroughs in nuclear fission set the stage for atomic warfare.
