Who Said It?

This is the day when Fascist and police governments cease to exist in the world. This is the day for democracy.

On August 14, 1945, President Harry S. Truman announced the surrender of Japan and with it the end of World War II.

“I deem this reply a full acceptance of the Potsdam Declaration which specifies the unconditional surrender of Japan. In the reply there is no qualification.”

–President Harry S. Truman, August 14, 1945 (Source: Harry S. Truman Library and Museum)

Watch Truman’ speech and news report of reaction via C-Span

After the official statement announcing the surrender of Japan, made at 7 pm ET,  Truman added:

“This is the day when Fascist and police governments cease to exist in the world. This is the day for democracy.”

“Japan Surrenders Unconditionally, World At Peace”

UPI Archive August 14, 1945

 

Truman announces Japan’s surrender to reporters in Oval Office.
Credit: Rowe, Abbie
National Park Service
Harry S. Truman Library & Museum.

For more on these events, see my post: “The Month That Changed the World”