A young Japanese girl who folded over 1,000 paper cranes while in the hospital for leukemia caused by the atomic bombing, symbolizing hope and peace. Her story has inspired generations worldwide.
Sadako Sasaki is forever etched in history as the Japanese girl who folded over a thousand origami cranes while battling leukemia, a result of the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. This courageous and determined young soul has become an international symbol of peace, hope, and nuclear disarmament.
On August 6, 1945, Sadako was just two years old when the United States dropped an atomic bomb on Hiroshima, changing the course of her life forever. She was blown out of the window of her home, located about 1.6 kilometers from ground zero, but miraculously survived with no apparent injuries. Her grandmother, however, lost her life in the tragedy.
As the years passed, Sadako grew up like her peers, becoming an active member of her class relay team. However, in November 1954, she began to experience swellings on her neck and behind her ears. The diagnosis was devastating: acute malignant lymph gland leukemia, or what the people of Hiroshima referred to as "atomic bomb disease."
Determined to recover, Sadako drew inspiration from an old Japanese legend, which promised that anyone who folded a thousand paper cranes would be granted a wish. With the help of her friends and family, Sadako folded crane after crane, hoping to recover from her illness. Although she ultimately did not reach her goal of a thousand cranes, her courage and determination have inspired countless people around the world.
Sadako's story has transcended borders, becoming a powerful symbol of the devastating consequences of nuclear war. Today, her origami cranes are a potent reminder of the importance of peace, nuclear disarmament, and international cooperation. As a testament to her legacy, the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum displays a statue of Sadako holding a giant origami crane, inspiring visitors from around the world to work towards a more peaceful future.
"I will write peace on your wings, and you will fly around the world."
— Sadako Sasaki
Sadako's remarkable story continues to inspire generations, reminding us of the importance of promoting peace, understanding, and nuclear disarmament. Her courage, determination, and legacy will forever be etched in our collective memory, serving as a beacon of hope for a better tomorrow.
Born in 1916
A Japanese engineer and businessman who survived the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, and became a vocal advocate for nuclear disarmament. He is known for being the only person officially recognized as a survivor of both bombings.
