PIKADON is a word that has been integrated into the Japanese vocabulary as a result of the atomic bombs. Translated, PIKA means brilliant light and DON means boom, representing what was seen and heard when the bombs were detonated. Those closest to the blast are more likely to refer to it as simply pika. The proximity to the hypocenter made it so they did not hear the thunderous clap that followed the bright flash because they were simultaneously hit with the full force of the bombs. No less important is the word HIBAKUSHU, meaning survivor of the atomic bombings.
The establishment of new vocabulary to refer specifically to bomb-related incidents is indicative of the magnitude of the bombings and their impact on Japanese culture. It also helped to initiate a type of solidarity based on the shared experience of the victims.
An unnamed survivor describes the intrinsic connection felt between hibakushu
Dr. Hachiya on how survivors relate to each other
It is estimated that 185 000 people died because of bomb-related injuries within the first year after the attacks. This death toll has continued to rise over the years, as survivors of the blasts have been susceptible to a variety of serious health problems, including a number of aggressive cancers. Anyone within a 2 km radius of the hypocenter was susceptible to the effects of radiation. It is important to note that estimates of death are just that; estimates. There is no universally accepted number and some estimates of the wounded are significantly higher. Immediately following the blasts most victims suffered from the same symptoms, as described by Dr. Michihiko Hachiya.
Dr. Hachiya discusses symptoms associated with the A-bomb
Though they didn’t know it at the time, these were the signs of radiation sickness.
At Emperor Hirohito’s urging, Japan surrendered unconditionally on August 15- less than a week after the second bomb hit Nagasaki. He announced the decision to the Japanese public by way of radio broadcast at noon that day, marking the first time his subjects had ever heard his voice.
Due in large part to the misinformation and propaganda that the population was fed regarding the war efforts, the reaction of the Japanese nation was overwhelmingly negative. Even those who felt the full wrath of the atomic bombs were outraged.
Dr. Hachiya decribes the reaction of patients in the hospital after the surrender was announced
This indignation later gave way to a sense of victimization and loss, which still characterizes the Japanese outlook today. One positive that emerged in time was a desire protect the world from the horrors inflicted upon them, a responsibility that has become the lasting impression of the bomb.
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