You are a lawyer working for the organization H.E.A.R (Historical Events Are Real). Your client, Hong Kong, has hired you to help prove that it was a major location for battles between the Allies and the Japanese during WWII. The night before you present your client’s case to W.H.O (World History Organization), you sift through the resources you want to use as proof. In front of you are numerous resources (letters, photographs, books, videos, interviews, etc.) that provide evidence of what happened in Hong Kong during WWII. You know from past experience, cases like this one require evidence from multiple perspectives. As you rummage through the piles of resources on your desk, you suddenly see them - the two best pieces of evidence to help you prove that it was a major location during the war. Resource #1 Peter Silverman interviews three war veterans who fought in the Battle of Hong Kong. Click here for the video. Resource #2 The Defense of Hong Kong – An article from the “Veterans Affairs, Canada” website.

Resource #3 The Battle for Hong Kong and Japanese Occupation – by Aashray, Alfonso, Maggie, Mariel and Rohit Resource #4 End of the Battle for Hong Kong (From a Japanese newsreel) – A transcription of the newsreel is alongside the video. You may want to read it as you watch the clip. Resource #5 Pictures of Japanese Posters taken from Post Impressions – 100 Years of Hong Kong News Photography. See next pages. Task 1: Explain .. - Which two did you choose? - What perspectives did they provide? - Why did you choose them over the others? Task 2: Prove the central idea “Different interpretations of the past can be discovered by investigating historical events”. Remember to use evidence. Task 3: How successful have you been in completing this task? Refer to the success criteria. What have you done well?

“When the Japanese Force makes the attack. Hong Kong cannot be exempt from the most fierce bombardment from the Japanese Airforce. Even with no help from the land force. It is certain that Hong Kong will be smashed into pieces from the air”.

“British officers we appeal you to consider the very fact. Do not kill your own in meaningless resistance ! Remember the Japanese Forces will guarantee the lives and belongings of those who will surrender”.