Sadako Sasaki

Sadako Sasaki was a Japanese girl who became a symbol of the impact of nuclear warfare after surviving the Hiroshima atomic bombing at the age of two. She developed leukemia nearly a decade later, which she attributed to the radiation exposure. While in the hospital, Sadako began folding origami cranes, inspired by the Japanese legend that anyone who folds a thousand cranes would be granted a wish. Her story and the cranes she folded became emblematic of the peace movement and a poignant reminder of the horrors of war. In 1955, her story inspired the creation of the 'Children's Peace Monument' in Hiroshima, which features her holding a crane. Sadako's legacy continues to resonate worldwide, highlighting the need for nuclear disarmament and peace. Recently, her story was brought back into the spotlight when her origami cranes were donated to former President Barack Obama as part of a peace initiative.