U.S. State Department Report on International Control of Atomic Energy with Theodore Van Kirk Hiroshima Inscription 1946

Theodore Van Kirk

Book

United States Department of State. The International Control of Atomic Energy: Scientific Information Transmitted to the United Nations Atomic Energy Commission June 14, 1946 – October 14, 1946, 1946, constitutes one of the earliest formal U.S. government submissions to the United Nations Atomic Energy Commission outlining proposed mechanisms to regulate nuclear weapons following the atomic bombings of Japan. Issued in the immediate aftermath of World War II and within one year of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima, the report presents a technical and policy framework focused on controlling fissile materials as the primary safeguard against proliferation. This copy bears a direct inscription by Theodore Van Kirk, navigator of the Enola Gay on August 6, 1945, linking the theoretical policy proposals of international governance with firsthand participation in the first operational use of atomic weapons. Van Kirk underscores a central conclusion of the report by writing: “As stated on p. 164, The best control measure for the prevention of atomic bomb manufacture are those intended to prevent the accumulation of the essential fissionable materials,” followed by his identification: “Theodore Van Kirk – Navigator – Enola Gay 6 Aug. 1945.”

United States Department of State. The International Control of Atomic Energy: Scientific Information Transmitted to the United Nations Atomic Energy Commission June 14, 1946 – October 14, 1946. Washington, D.C.: Department of State, 1946. Softcover volume measuring approximately 6 x 9 inches, 195 pages. The work compiles scientific data, policy recommendations, and diplomatic proposals submitted to the United Nations concerning the international management of atomic energy and the prevention of nuclear weapons development. The inscription appears on the title page in Van Kirk’s hand, directly referencing a specific passage within the text and reinforcing its central argument regarding material control.

Produced during the earliest phase of postwar nuclear diplomacy, the report aligns with U.S. efforts to establish international oversight of atomic energy before the escalation of Cold War arms competition. The presence of Van Kirk’s annotation situates the document within both policy formation and military execution, bridging governmental attempts at regulation with the lived experience of atomic warfare. Light wear to covers with minor handling; internally clean; inscription clear and legible. Overall very good condition.

Item #9975

Price: $500.00