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 pre - meditated and systematic act of violence by the Japanese military. Japanese commanders incited and condoned the brutal behavior of their soldiers. There is no factual basis for the other options. Civilians did not attack first, and it was not due to inexperience, panic, or Chinese forces closing in.

Answer:

A. Commanders encouraged their soldiers to be as brutal as possible.