No Place to Hide (Bradley book)

No Place to Hide is a book written by David J. Bradley, published in 1948. The book provides a first-hand account of the atomic bomb tests conducted at Bikini Atoll in 1946, known as Operation Crossroads. Bradley, a physician and radiological safety officer, offers insights into the effects of nuclear weapons and the implications for humanity.

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Cover of No Place to Hide

Background

The book was written in the aftermath of World War II, during a time when the world was grappling with the consequences of nuclear warfare. The United States had recently used atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki, leading to Japan's surrender and the end of the war. In this context, the U.S. military conducted tests at Bikini Atoll to understand the impact of nuclear explosions on naval vessels and to demonstrate military power.

Content

No Place to Hide is structured as a personal narrative, detailing Bradley's experiences and observations during the tests. The book is notable for its vivid descriptions of the explosions and the subsequent fallout. Bradley discusses the scientific and ethical implications of nuclear weapons, raising concerns about their potential for destruction and the long-term effects of radiation exposure.

Operation Crossroads

Operation Crossroads consisted of two detonations, codenamed Able and Baker. The tests involved detonating nuclear bombs over a fleet of decommissioned ships to assess the damage. Bradley's role as a radiological safety officer involved monitoring radiation levels and ensuring the safety of personnel involved in the operation.

Radiation and Health

Bradley provides detailed accounts of the radiation hazards encountered during the tests. He describes the challenges of measuring radiation exposure and the lack of understanding about its long-term health effects at the time. His observations contributed to the growing awareness of the dangers of radiation and the need for protective measures.

Impact and Legacy

No Place to Hide was one of the first books to bring the realities of nuclear warfare to the public's attention. It played a significant role in shaping public discourse on nuclear weapons and contributed to the emerging anti-nuclear movement. Bradley's work highlighted the ethical dilemmas posed by nuclear technology and the need for international cooperation to prevent nuclear proliferation.

Related pages

• Operation Crossroads
• Bikini Atoll
• Nuclear weapon
• Radiation
• Anti-nuclear movement