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Precursors to the Manhattan Project
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Einstein's Theory of Relativity
Einstein developed his famous equation: E=mc^2. This was important for future scientists in order to understand that a small amount of mass could create a huge amount of energy. -
The Discovery of the Neutron
James Chadwick discovers the neutron. This allows for a more complex understanding of atoms. -
Splitting the Atom
Enrico Fermi bombards the highly radioactive element uranium in order to split the atom. -
The Letter to FDR
Three scientists, including Einstein, drafted a letter to send President Roosevelt to inform him of the dangers of an atomic bomb and to encourage him to take actions to develop this destructive weapon. A fourth scientist later helped draft this letter. An advisor to FDR delivered the letter to him and urged him to take action, and he did. -
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The "Atomic Pile"
Fermi and a team of scientists worked on creating a smaller scale "bomb" to test a chain reaction of atom splitting. -
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The Manhattan Project
This timespan begins when Army colonel James Marshall penned the name of the creation of the atomic bomb. This timespan ends at the formal surrender of Japan. However, notice that the scientific discoveries did not conclude with Japan's surrender. -
Overseer of the Manhattan Project
Colonel Leslie Richard Groves was appointed the military director of the Manahttan Project. -
The Construction of the Experiment
Fermi and his team perfected the "atomic pile." -
The Experiment
The chain reaction in the atomic pile consisting of purified graphite, uranium oxide, and uranium went according to plan, and the scientists knew that they had the power to create the atomic bomb. This top-secret event occurred at the University of Chicago.
An observer of the reaction noted that it "marked a new era in man's history." -
Los Alamos - Location of Atomic Bomb Development
Scientists arrive in Los Alamos, New Mexico, to develop the atomic bomb. -
Official Surrender of Germany
Victory in Europe Day -
Trinity Test
The plutonium bomb was tested in Alamogordo, New Mexico. The test was successful. -
Hiroshima
Paul Tibbets drops the uranium bomb, Little Man, on Hiroshima. -
Nagasaki
Major Charles Sweeney drops the plutonium bomb, Fat Man, on Nagasaki. -
Japan's Official Surrender
World War II is over.
