Answer:
The Soviet Union was the first country to put a man in space.
Step-by-step explanation:
The man that the Soviet Union sent up (on 12 Apr 1961) was named Yuri Alekseyevich Gagarin.
Gagarin lasted less than two hours (1 hour and 48 minutes), which was enough time to orbit the Earth once in his capsule, Vostok 1. He was around 27 years old during this time. After this brave act, he was awarded the Soviet Union's highest honor, Hero of the Soviet Union.
I hope this helps. Please let me know if you have anymore questions. :)