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Airplane Quote by Paul Tibbets

“A bright light filled the plane. The first shock-wave hit us. We were eleven and a half miles slant range from the atomic explosion but the whole airplane cracked and crinkled from the blast... We turned back to look at Hiroshima. The city was hidden by that awful cloud... mushrooming, terrible…” quote by Paul Tibbets
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“A bright light filled the plane. The first shock-wave hit us. We were eleven and a half miles slant range from the atomic explosion but the whole airplane cracked and crinkled from the blast... We turned back to look at Hiroshima. The city was hidden by that awful cloud... mushrooming, terrible and incredibly tall.”

Paul Tibbets

About This Quote

Source Book: Hiroshima Diary by Paul Tibbets, 1945

Witnessing the atomic blast reveals the terrifying power of nuclear weapons and its lasting impact on humanity.

In simple terms: Nuclear bomb's horror and lasting impact.

Key Takeaway

Remember the cost of war.

Themes

war technology humanity destruction

Mood

somber reflective

Type

historical testimonial

When to use this quote

  • military training
  • historical education
  • peace activism

Key Concepts

nuclear physics ethical responsibility

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does witnessing such destruction shape one's view of conflict?
  • What responsibilities do survivors have?
A Different Perspective

The perspective is limited to a single participant; broader context missing.

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