Ep 3. The Bomb

Oliver Stone's Untold History of the United States is a 10-episode documentary series that explores the lesser-known aspects of American history. Season 1, Episode 3, titled "The Bomb," delves into the development and use of nuclear weapons during World War II and their lasting impact on the world.

The episode begins by exploring the early nuclear arms race between the United States and Nazi Germany. The Manhattan Project, a top-secret initiative to develop the first atomic bomb, was established in 1942, and scientists worked furiously to create the weapon before Germany did. The episode covers the scientific breakthroughs and ethical dilemmas faced by the Manhattan Project leaders, including Robert Oppenheimer, who was instrumental in the creation of the bombs.

Once the bombs were developed, the United States had to decide whether to use them on Japan. President Harry Truman ultimately made the decision to drop atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki, bringing an end to World War II. The episode explores the circumstances leading up to the bombings and the impact they had on Japan and the world.

The Bomb also examines the political climate of the post-war era, including the beginning of the Cold War and the arms race between the United States and the Soviet Union. As both countries developed nuclear weapons, tensions escalated, leading to fear and paranoia on both sides. The episode covers key events such as the Cuban Missile Crisis and the SALT Treaty negotiations, as well as the psychological impact of living in a world under the threat of nuclear war.

Throughout the episode, Stone offers his own commentary on the events, highlighting the contradictions and moral ambiguity surrounding the use of nuclear weapons. He also questions the traditional narrative of the bombings, suggesting that they were not necessary to end the war and that there were other motives behind their use.

Overall, The Bomb offers a fascinating insight into a pivotal moment in world history and the lasting impact of nuclear weapons on our society. Through interviews with experts, archival footage, and Stone's own commentary, viewers gain a deeper understanding of the complex ethical, political, and scientific issues surrounding the development and use of nuclear weapons.