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apr 12, 1961 - Yuri Gagarin/Alan Shepard

Description:

Increasing the tension between Russia and the U.S., Russia was able to send the first man to space, Yuri Gagarin. The Soviet attempt was successful at a critical time when they were competing with the United States. The U.S., trying to keep up with their actions, sent Alan Shepard roughly a month later. The mission was also a success but Shepard did not manage to orbit Earth-like Gagarin did. This event was an example of continuity because it stayed consistent to the “race” that was the Cold War.

Added to timeline:

Date:

apr 12, 1961
Now
~ 65 years ago