The A-Bomb Dome in Hiroshima still stands today, a haunting reminder of the devastating consequences of nuclear war. Eighty years ago, on August 6, 1945, the city was transformed into a war zone when an American B-29 bomber released a 12-kiloton atomic bomb over the city.
Yoshito Matsushige, a 32-year-old newspaper photographer at the time, witnessed the horror firsthand. He had been woken up in the middle of the night to cover air raid warnings and saw the sun rise over Hiroshima just hours before the bombing. The next morning, he returned to his home, about a mile and a half from the target bridge, where he took photographs of the destruction.
Matsushige’s photos were published years later, providing a poignant glimpse into the aftermath of the bombing. His most notable image is one taken on the Miyuki Bridge, where thousands of wounded civilians were swarming after the bomb fell. The scene was chaotic, with junior high school students among the victims who had been kept in the city to clear fire lines or work in ammunition factories.
The impact of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima is still felt today. Estimates suggest that at least 70,000 people died immediately, while many more succumbed to radiation sickness and injuries in the days and weeks following the attack. The bombing also led to a massive firestorm that destroyed two-thirds of the city’s homes and buildings.
The devastating effects of nuclear war are being revisited today as the world grapples with rising tensions between nations. In 2025, the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientist moved the Doomsday Clock from 90 seconds to midnight, citing threats posed by nuclear weapons, climate change, and emerging technologies.
As we mark the 80th anniversary of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima, it is essential to honor the memories of those who lost their lives. We must also recognize the importance of passing on lessons from the past to ensure a better future for generations to come.
In a world where nuclear war seems increasingly likely, let us take a moment to reflect on the consequences of our actions and strive for a more peaceful world.
Source: https://kansasreflector.com/2025/08/03/its-been-80-years-since-the-atomic-bombings-of-hiroshima-and-nagasaki-time-to-raise-some-l