The Beginning of the End 2020

Opening Newsreel: Time capsule seeds atomic knowledge for posterity

A newsreel frames atomic energy as a cornerstone of modern science while hinting at the dangers it poses. It reveals a time capsule buried in California to be opened in 2446, linking present discoveries to a distant future. The scene sets the film's theme of knowledge vs. power.

Oppenheimer warns of the dangers of atomic energy

Dr. J. Robert Oppenheimer extols the achievement of splitting the atom but cautions about its potential for devastation. The scientist's dual stance foreshadows moral concerns that underpin the project. He addresses the need for responsible stewardship of such power.

Scientists accelerate the war effort and beat Germany in the race

Matt Cochran and colleagues push forward, under the guidance of Enrico Fermi and Marré, to harness atomic energy. The narrative frames their success as a pivotal advantage in World War II. The tension between scientific triumph and moral risk is established.

Einstein and Roosevelt acknowledge the monumental discovery

With Einstein's help, scientists inform President Roosevelt that a groundbreaking development has been achieved. The moment signals a turning point toward national mobilization for a nuclear program. It sets the stage for government support to accelerate research.

Roosevelt authorizes Manhattan Project funding

In a wartime decision, President Roosevelt approves up to two billion dollars for the Manhattan Project. The funding underwrites the collaboration of science, industry, and defense. The plan gains official support and resources to scale up development.

First nuclear chain reaction achieved at the University of Chicago

In December 1942, a sustained chain reaction occurs under a stadium on the University of Chicago campus, witnessed by military observers and international scientists. The event marks a practical breakthrough in harnessing atomic energy. It proves the viability of controlled fission and catalyzes further development.

Nixon assigned to Groves and Groves is put in charge

Lieutenant Colonel Jeff Nixon is assigned to General Leslie Groves, who is placed in charge of the atomic project. The military leadership consolidates control over the research, production, and security aspects. This organizational step solidifies the project’s direction.

The project moves to Los Alamos and Truman takes office

After President Roosevelt's death, Harry S. Truman supports expanding the program, which relocates to Los Alamos, New Mexico. This transfer centralizes the scientific teams and weapons design. The move signals escalating urgency in weapon development.

Truman orders use of the atomic bomb

In July 1945, President Truman authorizes the deployment of atomic weaponry to hasten victory in the Pacific War. Military strategy shifts toward a demonstration of power and possible decisive effect. The decision triggers the final stages of production and deployment.

Cochran and Nixon head to Tinian with the bomb

Cochran and Nixon join the team transporting the bomb to Tinian Island. They prepare for the assembly and delivery as the war nears its critical phase. The mission intensifies the personal risks of scientists and soldiers alike.

Cochran dies after exposure to radioactive material

During bomb assembly, Cochran confronts dangerous radioactive fallout and dies as a consequence. His death highlights the hidden costs of frontier science and the human toll behind the technology. Nixon's mission continues despite the tragedy.

Hiroshima is bombed by the Enola Gay

On August 6, 1945, the Enola Gay drops an atomic bomb on Hiroshima, marking the first use of nuclear weapons in war. The devastation accelerates the end of World War II in the Pacific. The event forces a swift shift in global geopolitics and ethics.