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"Oppenheimer: The Mind Behind the Atomic Bomb and the Moral Fallout That Followed "

By: Elinor Evans
Originally Published in  HistoryExtra

J. Robert Oppenheimer led the Manhattan Project that created the first atomic bomb, but the decision haunted him for the rest of his life. This article explores his scientific genius, political ties, and ethical struggles.

The article ""Oppenheimer: The Mind Behind the Atomic Bomb and the Moral Fallout That Followed" from BBC's HistoryExtra follows J. Robert Oppenheimer's pivotal role in developing the atomic bomb during the Manhattan Project, his motivations, political associations, and the psychological toll of unleashing such a destructive force.
Student Article Info

BBC's HistoryExtra is devoted to both British and world history and aimed at readers of all levels of knowledge and interest. Learn more about subscriptions here.

Grades:
6-89-12
Subject:
Social Studies
Topic:
History
Keywords
Oppenheimeratomic bombManhattan projectnuclear weaponsWorld War II
Photo of the 1947 nuclear bomb test done showing a massive mushroom-shaped cloud
© Getty

Most passages are available in three different versions: Level 1 (Grade 3-5), Level 2 (Grade 6-8), and Level 3 (Grade 9-12). Some more complex texts are available only in Level 2 and Level 3. Use the versions that are most appropriate for the students in your class.

Note: The BBC Learning Hub Editorial Team made use of AI tools to create multiple versions of this article, each tailored to different student reading levels. Every version undergoes a thorough review by our BBC Learning editors to ensure accuracy, quality, and appropriateness.

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Level 2 Reading Passage
Grades: 6-8Lexile Level: 900–1100L
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Level 3 Reading Passage
Grades: 9-12Lexile Level: 1100–1300L
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The article "The Manhattan Project: Building the First Atomic Bomb" from BBC's HistoryExtra explains how a top-secret U.S. military project developed the world’s first atomic bomb during World War II. It covers the project's origins, key figures like J. Robert Oppenheimer, and the devastating bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki that marked the start of the Atomic Age.