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Why did the Atomic Energy Commission want to revoke J. Robert Oppenheimer’s security clearance? How did the drama unfold, and how did it end? J. Robert Oppenheimer was a scientist. But, he had political enemies who, time and time again, raised concerns over his apparent ties with—and leanings toward—communism. This all came to a head in 1953 when his security clearance, and therefore his career, came under threat. Continue reading to learn about Oppenheimer’s security clearance hearing.

What happened to J. Robert Oppenheimer after he lost his security clearance? Was his public reputation ever restored? In American Prometheus, Kai Bird and Martin Sherwin examine J. Robert Oppenheimer’s life before, during, and after the bomb, detailing the politically motivated security hearing that saw him lose his security clearance in 1954. Then, they shift to his exile from the upper ranks of the US government. Read more to learn about Robert Oppenheimer’s later life.

Why was J. Robert Oppenheimer chosen to lead the Manhattan Project? What was his attitude toward the work and its implications? According to Kai Bird and Martin Sherwin, J. Robert Oppenheimer represents a modern-day Prometheus, the Greek Titan eternally punished for stealing fire from the gods and imparting it to humanity. Their book provides a comprehensive biography of the man best known for developing the atomic bomb. Keep reading to learn about Oppenheimer and the Manhattan Project.