This exhibition is presented by the ANU Japan Institute and Menzies Library, in collaboration with the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum.

This remarkable exhibition showcases the devastation wreaked by the US atomic bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki in 1945, one of the most significant historical episodes in the Asia-Pacific. The dropping of the atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki in 1945 introduced a new form of horror into the world and ushered in a nuclear age.

Since 1995, Hiroshima City has collaborated with institutions in major cities around the world to organise exhibitions to deepen public knowledge of the realities behind the atomic bombs and to convey the cruelty and inhumanity of this weapon of mass destruction.

The exhibition features materials generously provided by the Hiroshima Peace and Memorial Museum, documentation from the ANU Archives and local and international disarmament and peace movements, and a selection of publications from the Menzies Library at ANU. It provides an invaluable opportunity for ANU staff and students, as well as members of the wider public, government and diplomatic officials to bear witness to events of 1945 and to learn about their enduring impact and consequences.

As it is now seventy-five years since the atomic bombs were dropped, the chance to hear from the aging survivors of this traumatic event are slipping away. It is becoming more and more important to convey their words and feelings to younger generations, the future leaders of the world. We were extremely honoured to have one such survivor, Ms Yoshiko Kajimoto, share her testimonial of 1945 atomic bombing at the Exhibition launch event. When you visit the exhibition you can hear her speak and read her powerful words.

The exhibition is on display in the Menzies Library from 6 September until 30 November 2022 and is open to the public. We strongly encourage ANU teaching staff to find an opportunity to bring their classes and students to visit this important exhibition.

Menzies Library opening hours - link.

Watch the video recording of the launch event, including eyewitness testimony from A-bomb survivor, and Gareth Evans' speech.

Read the Eye-witness testimony of A-bomb survivor, Ms Yoshiko Kajimoto - Transcript of the testimony by Ms Yoshiko Kajimoto at the opening of the Exhibition

Read the Why the horrors of Hiroshima and Nagasaki must never be repeated - Transcript of the speech by Prof the Hon Gareth Evans AC QC at the opening of the Exhibition