Question

why did japanese soldiers kill so many civilians in nanjing, china?

• commanders encouraged their soldiers to be as brutal as possible.
• civilians attacked the soldiers first, and then the soldiers retaliated.
• soldiers were inexperienced at fighting and panicked under pressure.
• chinese forces were closing in, so the soldiers took desperate measures.

Explanation:

The Nanjing Massacre was a heinous act of aggression by Japanese - invading forces. Japanese commanders encouraged and condoned the brutal behavior of their soldiers. There is no factual basis for the other options. Civilians did not attack the soldiers first, and it was not due to in - experience or Chinese forces closing in. The Japanese army carried out systematic massacres, rapes, and looting.

Answer:

Commanders encouraged their soldiers to be as brutal as possible.