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Cranston High School West Library: Boudreau - Atomic Bomb

OVERVIEW

Atomic Bomb Research Project:   “Should the Atomic Bomb Have Been Dropped?”

In August 1945, the United States dropped two atomic bombs on the Japanese cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. These bombings played a major role in ending World War II, but they also caused massive destruction and loss of life. In this project, you will research the events, reasons, effects, and debates surrounding the use of the atomic bomb. Then, you’ll share what you’ve learned and form your own opinion.

Your Project Should Include

1. Background on World War II

  • Who was fighting?
  • What was happening in the Pacific?

2. The Manhattan Project

  • What was it? Who was involved?

3. The Bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki

  • What happened on August 6 and 9, 1945?
  • How many people were affected?

4. Reasons for Dropping the Bomb

  • Why did the U.S. do it?

5. The Aftermath

  • What were the short- and long-term effects?

6. Different Opinions

  • What did people at the time think?
  • What do historians and people today say

7. Your Opinion

  • Do you think the U.S. should have dropped the bomb? Why or why not?

My Bib

Sources

Use at least 2–3 reliable sources (books, educational websites, videos). You must list your sources at the end of your project.

Grading Rubric Highlights

  • Clear explanation of events (20 points)
  • Use of facts and details (20 points)
  • Organization and creativity (20 points)
  • Critical thinking and opinion (20 points)
  • Citing sources (20 points)
  • Total: 100 points

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ABC-CLIO Social Studies Databases

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