The Space Race
United States vs Soviet Union, Democracy vs Communism
How the Space Race parellels the cold war
The competition between the United States and the Soviet Union to be the first to the moon was just as fierce as the cold war. Each country was fighting to prove its superiority to the other, and to the world. If the Soviet Union had won, it would have been a victory for communism. When the US won, it was a victory for democracy.
Why Important?
Landing a man on the moon was something Kennedy had dreamed of. After his assassination this was a way for the country to honor his legacy, and fulfill his dreams and hard work.
Major Events
April 1961: Yuri Gagarin
The Soviet Union establishes themselves by having the first person to travel in space. Gagarin completed a full orbit around the earth.
May 1961: Alan Shepard Jr
Shepard was the first American to go to space.
Februrary 1962: John Glenn
The first American to orbit the earth.
More Major Events
1967
Three Apollo astronauts die in a prelaunch test.
July 20, 1969
The Eagle lands on the moon with Astronauts Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin and the first steps are taken on the moon.
1972
In just three years Apollo has 5 more successful launches.