About the Episode
By early 1945, it’s clear to the United States that Japan will never surrender and will need to be subdued by force. American bombers firebomb Tokyo and other Japanese cities, killing hundreds of thousands. US forces attack the island of Okinawa in preparation for a planned full-scale invasion of the Japanese home islands. But Japan defends Okinawa with waves of kamikaze pilots and soldiers, vowing to fight to the death in what will become the bloodiest battle of the Pacific theater.
Newly sworn-in President Harry Truman assumes command of the war as it enters its climax. He is determined to secure unconditional victory, while looking for ways to minimize American casualties. And Japanese Emperor Hirohito also hopes to avoid the destruction of his land and people and retain his place on the imperial throne—but his generals agitate to continue the fighting. Both men seek an alternative to the coming invasion of Japan.
When Truman receives news about a successful test in the New Mexico desert, he has a new option: the most terrible weapon the world has ever seen.
The National WWII Museum was proud to support HISTORY's work on this series through historical research, educational outreach, and archival footage, as well as on-site interviews with WWII veterans that will be featured as part of the network’s “Save Our History” initiative.
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1945
The National WWII Museum presents 1945, a six-part podcast series that tells the story of one of the most consequential years in modern history. 1945 is hosted by Donald Miller, New York Times best-selling author of Masters of the Air, along with Kirk Saduski, producer and executive for Playtone, the company that brought you Band of Brothers.
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Our institution explores the full story of the American experience in World War II through immersive exhibits, multimedia experiences, and an expansive collection of artifacts and personal accounts. Plan your visit to the top-rated attraction in New Orleans and be inspired by the stories of those who came together to secure Allied victory.
