Question

Japanese losses were staggering in comparison: an estimated 1.74 million killed or missing, and 94,000 wounded. Few Japanese troops surrendered, instead choosing to fight to the death or commit suicide. Does the statement above support or contradict Admiral Leahy’s opinion? Explain your answer.

Answer 1

include in your response

This statement contradicts Leahy’ opinion.

Japanese casualties were already high.

Japanese soldiers had shown no willingness to surrender in the past.

Japanese soldiers were willing to fight to the death.

SAMPLE RESPONSE: This statement contradicts Leahy's opinion. Leahy believed that the Japanese were about to surrender, but they had shown no willingness to surrender in the past. In addition, the casualty rates were very high. Although many people were killed in the atomic blast, a full Allied assault on Japan would likely have killed even more people.

Answer 2

This statement contradicts Leahy's opinion. Leahy believed that the Japanese were about to surrender, but they had shown no willingness to surrender in the past. In addition, the casualty rates were very high. Although many people were killed in the atomic blast, a full Allied assault on Japan would likely have killed even more people.