Emperor Hirohito — "It is my sincere wish that the people of Japan will strive for a bright future."

"It is my earnest desire that the people of Japan will unite as one and strive for the reconstruction and development of the nation."

"Moreover, the enemy has begun to employ a new and most cruel bomb, the power of which to do damage is, indeed, incalculable, taking the toll of many innocent lives. Should we continue to fight, not on…"

"The progress of science and technology should be used for the welfare of mankind, not for destruction."

"The Imperial Family is a symbol of the unity of the Japanese people."

"We must never forget the lessons of history."