Designed for K-12 educators, this virtual teacher workshop examines the United States’ decision to drop the atomic bombs on Japan and resources to teach this history through a range of primary and secondary sources. Shortly after the first successful nuclear weapon test in July 1945, President Harry S. Truman wrote in his diary that “this atomic bomb… seems to be the most terrible thing ever discovered, but it can be made the most useful.” The president’s conflicted feelings about the bomb captured a debate that has continued since he authorized its use against the Japanese cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki in August 1945. While some historians contend that the use of atomic weapons saved American and Japanese lives by speeding the war’s end, others maintain that the bombs were neither necessary nor justified.

In this virtual teacher workshop, participants hear from Museum Master Educator Mike Arvites about the dropping of the atomic bombs, challenges in teaching this topic, and strategies to effectively teach about this history in the classroom. Then, you will hear from Museum educators about resources to use in your classroom, including a range of primary and secondary sources.

Educators who participate in this virtual workshop will receive all resources highlighted as well as a certificate confirming they participated in 90 minutes of professional development with The National WWII Museum.