THE FIREBOMBING OF TOKYO.

  • Published In: History Today, 2025, v. 75, n. 3. P. 40 1 of 3

  • Database: Academic Search Ultimate 2 of 3

  • Authored By: Overy, Richard 3 of 3

Abstract

In March 1945, American air raids on Tokyo resulted in the deaths of 80,000 people in one night, marking the heaviest death toll of any conventional bombing raid. The decision to shift from precision bombing to incendiary bombing was influenced by the vulnerability of Japanese cities, which were largely constructed of wood. The firebombing campaign aimed to force Japan's surrender and establish American air power in the Pacific, with the devastating impact on civilians raising questions about morality and legality in warfare. [Extracted from the article]

Additional Information

  • Source:History Today. 2025/03, Vol. 75, Issue 3, p40
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:Military History and Science
  • Publication Date:2025
  • ISSN:0018-2753
  • Accession Number:182996803
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