Supporters of using the atomic bomb against Japan at the end of World War II thought an invasion would

Supporters of using the atomic bomb against Japan at the end of World War II believed that an invasion of Japan would:

1. Cause High Casualties: They anticipated that a direct invasion of Japan would result in extremely high casualties, both among Allied troops and the Japanese population. The potential casualties from a conventional invasion were estimated to be substantial due to the fierce resistance expected from the Japanese military and the determination of the civilian population to defend their homeland.
2. Produce Prolonged Conflict: Supporters of the atomic bomb argued that a conventional invasion might prolong the war significantly. They believed that Japan's military leadership might continue fighting and refuse to surrender, leading to a protracted conflict that could extend for months or even years resulting in more casualties and devastation.
3. Require Substantial Resources: An invasion would demand extensive resources in terms of manpower, military equipment and supplies. The Allied forces were already stretched by the demands of the ongoing war and an invasion of Japan would require even greater resources potentially prolonging the conflict further.
4. Risk Greater Losses: There was concern that an invasion might not only result in high casualties among Allied forces but also lead to the destruction of Japanese cities and infrastructure, causing immense loss of life among civilians.
5. Delay the End of the War: Proponents of using the atomic bomb believed that the use of such a powerful weapon could expedite Japan's surrender by demonstrating the devastating capabilities of nuclear warfare, potentially bringing a quicker end to the war and saving lives in the long run by avoiding a prolonged conflict.

These considerations were among the key factors that influenced the decision to use the atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki in August 1945, leading to Japan's surrender and the conclusion of World War II.