Final answer:
The Space Race sparked significant interest in science and innovation at the federal government level, leading to increased spending and investment in research and development, as well as the establishment of related industries.
Step-by-step explanation:
The major event that sparked an interest in science and innovation at the federal level of the government is the Space Race. This period of intense competition between the United States and the Soviet Union drove technological advancements and increased federal spending on science and education to ensure that America did not fall behind in space exploration. This commitment to science and education had lasting effects, leading to significant investments in research and development and the establishment of new industries, particularly in space and defense-related sectors.