The Voice of the Crane
Exactly 70 Years ago today, at 12 Noon on August 15th 1945, a recording of Emperor Hirohito [made the previous day] was broadcast to the Japanese people.
This was an imperial command—known as the Voice of the Crane, since the sacred bird could be heard even when it flew unseen.
For most Japanese, it was the first time they had heard the voice of their Emperor.
Links:
- Imperial Household Agency
- Recording released of emperor’s wartime surrender – Ashai Shimbun
- Japan Times
- The Atlantic
- ABC News – Australia
