Which Allied declaration called for Japan’s unconditional surrender in July 1945?

The Potsdam Declaration called for Japan’s unconditional surrender in July 1945.

The United States, the United Kingdom, and China issued the declaration on July 26, 1945, during the Potsdam Conference. It warned that Japan would face “prompt and utter destruction” if it rejected the demand. The Soviet Union was not yet at war with Japan and did not initially sign the declaration.

The document described broad conditions for surrender, including the disarmament of Japanese forces, the punishment of war criminals, and the establishment of a peaceful government. It also stated that Japanese sovereignty would be limited to the main islands and other territories determined by the Allies.

Japan did not immediately accept the declaration. The atomic bombing of Hiroshima, the Soviet entry into the war against Japan, the bombing of Nagasaki, and political debate within Tokyo all preceded the final decision to surrender. Japan accepted the terms in August.