The Case:
A contributor in New York City has a scrapbook of typed and handwritten documents connected with the top-secret Manhattan Project, which developed the United States’ first nuclear bombs during World War II.
The most intriguing item is a letter dated just after the war. It’s a plea for reduced secrecy regarding nuclear affairs in the scientific community once hostilities had ended.
Did the scientists' letter help persuade President Harry S. Truman to change policy in the post war era?
History Detectives tracks down the authors of the documents, and explores the delicate balance between science, military power and democracy.
The Manhattan Project Declaration
This declaration emphasizes the need to control atomic weaponry and acknowledge its consequences. The scientists warn of the havoc that nuclear weapons could wreak if not handled with extreme care and consideration. See the pages of the statement below.
Related Content
Technique:
Technique:
Technique:
Related Links
Explore
-
Related Investigation
Exercise Records
What role did these records play in the sculpting of america's fixation with fitness?
-
Related Investigation
Annie Oakley Coin
Was this coin a target for one of the Wild West's most popular female sharpshooters?
-
Also in Post War: 1945-1960
Charlie Parker's Saxophone
Could this be jazz legend Charlie "Bird" Parker's saxophone?
-
Also with Wes Cowan
Whaling Ship
Might a ship docked in Mystic Seaport, hold secrets to the Underground Railroad?
-
Also with Wes Cowan
Red Cloud's Peace Pipe
Was this pipe given to an Indian agent by the famous Lakota warrior Chief Red Cloud?
-
Also with Wes Cowan
Bonus Army Stamp
Is this stamp connected to a moment when the U.S. Army fought fellow soldiers in the nation’s capital?
Comments
This is a place for opinions, comments, questions and discussion; a place where viewers of History Detectives can express their points of view and connect with others who value history. We ask that posters be polite and respectful of all opinions. History Detectives reserves the right to delete comments that don’t conform to this conduct. We will not respond to every post, but will do our best to answer specific questions, or address an error.