Notes on the Manhattan Project and Petition to Truman

The Manhattan Project started in 1942, bringing together many scientists to create the first atomic bombs.

This secret project was supported by the U.S. government to use atomic power during World War II.

By 1945, the scientists had made atomic bombs, and they were about to be used against Japan.

Scientists' Petition to President Harry S. Truman (July 17, 1945)

Context and Concerns:

The scientists were worried that the U.S. might face attacks with atomic bombs in the war.

With Germany's defeat, the danger lessened, changing how the scientists viewed atomic warfare.

Arguments in the Petition:

• Need for Quick End to War:

  • The scientists recognized that atomic bombs were powerful in battle but asked to be careful about using them against Japan.

• Justification for Bomb Use:

  • They believed that any attacks should be based on letting the public know Japan's surrender terms.

  • Japan should have a chance to surrender clearly.

• Moral Responsibilities:

  • They stressed the importance of thinking carefully about the ethics of using atomic bombs.

• Future Implications:

  • The creation of atomic power could lead to destruction in future wars.

  • Other countries could gain atomic power, putting global safety at risk and possibly destroying cities.

  • They called on the U.S. to stop dangerous use of atomic power worldwide and to act responsibly.

Key Points of the Petition

2. Clear Demands:

   • Propose that using atomic bombs should only happen after Japan's surrender terms are made public.

   • Decisions about bomb use should consider moral issues discussed in the petition.

Discussion Questions Responses

1. Purpose of the Petition:

   • To ask for clear ethical guidance on the possible use of atomic bombs against Japan and to show the responsibilities that come with such power.

2. Tone of the Petition:

   • The tone is serious and moral, showing great concern for what using atomic weapons could lead to.

3. Justification for Bomb Use:

   • The use of atomic bombs may only be acceptable if Japan is told the surrender terms and still chooses to fight.

4. U.S. Responsibility:

   • The U.S. has a serious duty to ensure that atomic power does not cause worldwide destruction since it leads in atomic technology.

5. Additional Understanding of Hiroshima and Nagasaki:

   • The petition reflects the moral challenges faced by leaders and scientists when deciding to use atomic bombs, giving context for the bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki.