The Pacific War was an example of 'total war, ' and a proper understanding of it (including its profound and lasting political, strategic and social consequences) requires an examination of Japanese, as well as Allied perspectives. By including a range of primary sources representing the experiences and views of participants and commentators of all sides, and setting them in their historical contexts, this unique anthology promotes such an understanding. Alongside sources that reflect 'traditional' military history, material that considers the war from the perspective of the 'new military history' is also included. By making use of media (and other) reports, as well as the letters, diaries and speeches of the protagonists, both 'public' and 'private' accounts of the war are represented. The editors' expertise in Japanese history, and their ability to identify and translate appropriate documents, ensures a well-rounded account of Japanese perspectives on the conflict. The book covers the period from July 1937 to September 1945, touching briefly on the post-war Allied occupation of Japan. Although it emphasises American and Japanese accounts, it also includes material from around the world. Materials covering political and strategic issues, the experiences of combatants (and prisoners of war), the experiences of civilians caught up in the various war zones and the impact of the war on the various home fronts, are also included.

"Competing Voices from the Pacific War: Fighting Words" covers the period from July 1937 to September 1945, touching briefly on the post-war Allied occupation of Japan. Although it emphasizes American and Japanese accounts, it also includes perspectives from other nations. Materials covering political and strategic issues, the experiences of combatants and prisoners of war, the experiences of civilians caught up in the various war zones, and the impact of the war on the various home fronts, are also included.

By including a range of primary sources representing the experiences and views of participants and commentators of all sides and setting them in their historical contexts, this unique anthology promotes an understanding of the Pacific War, the events that led up to it, and its legacies. Alongside sources that reflect traditional military history, material that considers the war from the perspective of the "new military history" is also included.