TOW #25 - WWII Political Cartoon

A-Bomb in Hiroshima, Japan

     On August 6, 1945 the United States of America dropped an atomic bomb on Hiroshima, Japan. Three days later, another bomb was dropped this time on Nagasaki. Approximately 250,000 Japanese civilians died, either immediately or after a prolonged period of suffering. This political cartoon depicts the extent of horror the A-bomb had on Japan. 

     The atomic bomb brought death to many Japanese citizens because of its immense power. In this political cartoon, it shows the words "death" and "ruin" on two ghost-like, grim reaper-like characters. The United States being portrayed as grim reapers, bringers of death, is indicative of their causing of the 250,000 Japanese deaths. In comparison, the Japanese peasant is very small frightened and surprised. His only method of protecting himself from such a surprise attack was with a paper umbrella. In reality, many Japanese civilians had not even the slightest clue that they would be met with such a disastrous fate. Atomic bombs are terrible weapons that bring mass destruction and death; this political cartoon shows the extend of just that. 

     Along with character portrayals of the United States and Japan, the fire triggered by the tall ghost-like figures continue to bring the destruction towards the Japanese people. The ruin that the grim reapers brought engulf everything in flames, and has lasting effects. The title "We Have Come To Stay" shows that the destruction was something that was not momentary, but brought with it prolonged suffering and death. This illustration shows the United States in a dark light, for they obstructed small Japanese towns with an immensely powerful weapon.

     The atomic bomb is often regarded as a necessity to the war that allowed allied forces to win. However, what is often overlooked is the death and suffering it brought along with it. Ruin brought by the grim reapers was widespread throughout the country, bringing death and ruin to the Japanese people.