"American Prometheus," by Kai Bird and Martin J. Sherwin, is the gripping biography of J. Robert Oppenheimer, the brilliant physicist known as the "father of the atomic bomb." This comprehensive work delves into Oppenheimer's pivotal role in the Manhattan Project during World War II, which led to the creation of the first atomic bomb. It explores his complex personality, intellectual prowess, and the ethical dilemmas he faced with the weapon's development. The book also chronicles Oppenheimer's life post-World War II, including his advocacy for nuclear arms control, which ultimately led to conflicts with government officials during the Cold War era. His story takes a turn during the McCarthy era, where he becomes a target of anti-communist sentiments, leading to a public hearing that strips him of his security clearance and ends his government career. "American Prometheus" is not just a biography; it's a deep exploration of moral responsibility in scientific innovation.
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