Sadako Sasaki was a Japanese girl who became a symbol of the effects of nuclear warfare. Born on January 7, 1943, in Hiroshima, she was just two years old when the atomic bomb was dropped on the city on August 6, 1945. Although she initially appeared healthy, Sadako developed leukemia ten years later, which was attributed to the radiation exposure from the bombing. While in the hospital, Sadako began folding origami cranes, inspired by the Japanese legend that says if one folds 1,000 cranes, they will be granted a wish. She aimed to recover and promote peace. Sadako passed away on October 25, 1955, but her story continues to inspire peace movements worldwide.