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
-
Also with Wes Cowan
Yakima Canutt's Saddle
What leading role did this saddle play in the birth of the Hollywood cowboy?
-
Also with Wes Cowan
Lookout Mountain Painting
What can this painting tell us about a turning point in the Civil War?
-
Also in Season 5
Hitler Films
Could these rusting film canisters contain unknown footage of one of the 20th century's most heinous murderers?
-
Related Investigation
Philadelphia Freedom Paper
Is this document found in a flea market an original freedom paper for African-Americans?
-
Related Investigation
Cleveland Electric Car
What happened to the electric street car network in Cleveland?
-
Also with Wes Cowan
Lafitte's Spyglass
Did this spyglass really belong to a fearless cutthroat pirate?
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.