On September 2, 1945, World War II officially ended with the signing of the Japanese Instrument of Surrender aboard the USS Missouri in Tokyo Bay. This marked the conclusion of the deadliest and most widespread conflict in history.

Key points about the event:

• Japanese Surrender: The signing ceremony was held after Japan’s acceptance of the Allies’ terms outlined in the Potsdam Declaration, following the dropping of atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki in August 1945. The formal surrender was signed by Japanese Foreign Minister Mamoru Shigemitsu and General Yoshijiro Umezu.
• USS Missouri: The location of the surrender, the USS Missouri, was chosen because it symbolized the strength of the Allied forces. The American representatives included General Douglas MacArthur, Supreme Commander for the Allied Powers, and Fleet Admiral Chester W. Nimitz.
• End of the War: This event marked the official end of World War II, following the earlier surrender of Nazi Germany in May 1945. After the Japanese surrender, the war’s conclusion reshaped the global political landscape and led to the establishment of the United Nations in an effort to prevent future conflicts.

This day is now commemorated as V-J Day (Victory over Japan Day).