Question

As discussed in the textbook, during the 1950s, how did the U.S. respond when politicians felt the United States had lost its scientific edge to the former Soviet Union?

a. Increased funding for the arts
b. Launching of the space program
c. Reducing emphasis on science education
d. Ignoring the issue

Answer 1

In response to feeling that the U.S. lost its scientific edge during the 1950s, the government launched NASA and passed the National Defense Education Act to bolster science education and national defense capabilities.

Step-by-step explanation:

During the 1950s, when politicians felt the United States had lost its scientific edge to the former Soviet Union, the U.S. responded by launching a significant space program. Congress took action and established the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) to explore space, marking a pivotal moment in the Cold War's space race. The creation of NASA was complemented by a broader push for scientific education and innovation, as embodied by the National Defense Education Act, which invested in colleges and provided loans to students in math, science, and engineering fields. These steps underscored the importance of maintaining premier higher education systems for national security and future technological advancements.