Japan overthrows the French administration in Indochina; Bảo Đại then proclaims the Empire of Vietnam with Trần Trọng Kim as prime minister.
One of the bloodiest battles of the Pacific War, causing heavy losses among soldiers and Okinawan civilians.
The Allies formally accept Nazi Germany's unconditional surrender, ending the Second World War in Europe.
Bảo Đại, the last Nguyễn emperor, abdicates and hands the imperial seal and sword to the revolutionary government at Huế, ending the monarchy.
The United States drops the first atomic bomb used in war on Hiroshima, killing tens of thousands instantly.
Sukarno and Mohammad Hatta proclaim Indonesia's independence in Jakarta, beginning the revolution against Dutch rule.
The Việt Minh seize power in Hanoi on 19 August, then in Huế and Saigon; Emperor Bảo Đại abdicates at the end of the month.