Today, Japan marks the 75th anniversary of the world’s first atomic bomb that was dropped in Hiroshima back in 1945. But this year, the memorial events were scaled back because of the pandemic.
At the events, both Japan’s Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and the mayor of Hiroshima have joined with the bomb survivors and descendants in the city’s Peace Park.
Usually, the park will be attended by thousands of people for the anniversary. But, the attendance had to be reduced this year to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Most attendance can be seen wearing masks and chairs were spaced apart.
At 08.15, a moment of silence was held, it is the same time that the bomb was dropped in Hiroshima in 1945. But, what is happening in 1945?
On August 6, 1945, the first atomic bomb codenamed ‘Little Boy’ was dropped on the city of Hiroshima. It was the first time a nuclear weapon was used during a war.
It is believed that at least 70,000 people were killed immediately when the bomb was dropped and destroyed the city. More people died in the following days, weeks, and months from injuries due to radiation poisoning.
At that time, Japan still does not surrender and three days later, a second bomb called ‘Fat Man’ was dropped about 420 kilometers (261 miles) to the south over Nagasaki. On August 14, 1945, Japan surrendered, ending World War Two.
According to the BBC, it is thought that about 140,000 people in Hiroshima were killed while at least 74,000 people died in Nagasaki.
“On August 6, 1945, a single atomic bomb destroyed our city. Rumor at the time had it that ‘nothing will grow here for 75 years,'” said Hiroshima’s Mayor, Kazumi Matsui at the event.
“And yet, Hiroshima recovered, becoming a symbol of peace,” he added.
After the war ended, Hiroshima tried to recreate itself as a City of Peace and continue to promote nuclear disarmament around the world.
Source: BBC