Research Paper

EFFECTS ON LIVING ORGANISMS IN THE BIKINI ISLAND ATOLL 1

Effects on Living Organisms in the Bikini Island Atoll

After Bomb Testings During the 1950's

EFFECTS ON LIVING ORGANISMS IN THE BIKINI ISLAND ATOLL 2

Abstract

Despite the fact that bombs have been extremely important in current events for decades, not many people know how they began in America. The largest atomic bomb tests took place from 1946-1958 in the Bikini Atoll of the Marshall Islands. Detonating hundreds of atomic bombs had massive negative effects on the environment. These series of bombs displaced hundreds of Bikini natives and led to their extreme lack of supplies. Thousands of United States Navy sailors were somehow affected, either through cancer or other types of diseases. Almost every living organism received a form of radiation sickness. Sea life was especially effected due to most of the bombs being tested in the lagoon of the atoll. The hydrogen bomb “Bravo”, had the largest effect on the area's ecology due to its massive size. The tests were part of Operation Crossroads where President Harry Truman wanted to test some United States Navy warships and their ability to withstand large explosives. However, nearly every ship that was in the water at the time of the detonation, was either completely destroyed or damaged beyond repair. This entire operation cost the U.S. Government millions of dollars, for the ships, bombs, labor and lawsuits. In this essay, the effects on living organisms and a brief history on the total will be provided.

EFFECTS ON LIVING ORGANISMS IN THE BIKINI ISLAND ATOLL 3

Effects on Living Organisms in the Bikini Island Atoll

After Bomb Testings During the 1950's

After World War II, the United States Military began testing Nuclear bombs in the Bikini Island Atoll of the Pacific for Operation Crossroads. President Harry Truman wanted to determine the...