What was the primary rationale for the use of the atomic bomb in World War II?
A.
to expand the power and influence of the United States
B.
to contain the spread of communism
C.
to punish the citizens of Japan
D.
to bring the conflict to a swift and definitive conclusion
D. to bring the conflict to a swift and definitive conclusion
The primary rationale for the use of the atomic bomb in World War II was to bring the conflict to a swift and definitive conclusion, particularly in the Pacific theater against Japan. The U.S. aimed to avoid a prolonged invasion of Japan, which was expected to result in significant casualties on both sides. The bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki in August 1945 ultimately led to Japan's surrender.