The Space Race and the Cold War at Home

History
Year 9 / GCSE / Grade 8
5 questions
~10 mins
1 views0 downloads

About This Worksheet

This worksheet explores different interpretations of the Space Race during the Cold War, encouraging students to compare historians' views and evaluate their arguments.

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The Space Race and the Cold War at Home

Subject: HistoryGrade: Year 9 / GCSE / Grade 8
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Untitled Worksheet

Grade Year 9 / GCSE / Grade 8
A

Interpretations of the Space Race during the Cold War

Historian A: John Smith – Economic Perspective "John Smith argues that the Space Race was primarily driven by economic competition between the USA and USSR. He emphasizes how technological advancements in space technology spurred economic growth and military spending, which in turn fostered national prestige. Smith suggests that the race was a strategic move to demonstrate economic and technological superiority, ultimately benefiting the nations' economies and global standing. He views the Space Race as a reflection of economic rivalry rather than purely ideological conflict."

Historian B: Lisa Brown – Social Perspective "Lisa Brown contends that the Space Race had a profound social impact, inspiring a generation of Americans and Soviet citizens. She highlights how it fostered national pride and motivated educational and scientific pursuits among the public. Brown sees the Space Race as a catalyst for social change, encouraging technological literacy and a collective sense of achievement. She argues that the social effects of the Space Race were as significant as its political or economic aspects, shaping public perceptions and aspirations during the Cold War.**

1.
Summarize each historian's view on the purpose of the Space Race. (4 marks)
[4 marks]
2.
Compare the reasons why the two historians believe the Space Race was important during the Cold War. (6 marks)
[6 marks]
3.
Explain which historian's interpretation you find more convincing and why. (8 marks)
[8 marks]
4.
Outline how the differing perspectives of the two historians can help us understand the significance of the Space Race. (6 marks)
[6 marks]
5.
Describe how the two historians' views differ and what this reveals about the Cold War era. (8 marks)
[8 marks]

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Details

Created
1/1/2026
Updated
1/1/2026
Type
worksheet