Emperor Hirohito — "The Imperial House has a long history, and it is my duty to uphold its tradition…"

"The action of the Kwantung Army in Manchuria was taken without my approval, and I am highly displeased with it."

"The lessons learned from the past must guide our future."

"I have been told about my war responsibility and did not see any point in living longer because it would only increase my chances of seeing or hearing things that are agonizing."

"The concept of 'Greater East Asia Co-Prosperity Sphere' was a noble ideal, but its implementation was flawed."

"It is difficult to believe that the American and British forces would surrender unconditionally."