Which Allied ultimatum did Japan accept when it agreed to end World War II?

Japan accepted the Potsdam Declaration when it agreed to end World War II. Issued on July 26, 1945, the declaration demanded Japan’s unconditional surrender and warned of “prompt and utter destruction” if it refused.

The declaration was issued by the United States, the United Kingdom, and China during the final stage of the Potsdam Conference. President Harry Truman, Prime Minister Winston Churchill, and Generalissimo Chiang Kai-shek were the principal leaders associated with it, although the Soviet Union did not initially sign because it was not yet at war with Japan.

The declaration outlined broad Allied aims, including the disarmament of Japan, the removal of militarist influence, occupation of designated territory, and the establishment of conditions for a peaceful government. It also stated that Japan would not be destroyed as a nation, but would face consequences for continuing the war.

Japan’s government initially rejected the declaration publicly. After the Hiroshima bombing, the Soviet entry into the war, and the Nagasaki bombing, Japan accepted its terms, subject to the preservation of the emperor’s position.