Atomic Fears and the Arms Race: Nuclear Testing | Retro Report

As America rose to global power at the dawn of the atomic age, some American soldiers paid a heavy price for America’s nuclear experiments. This 13-minute video shows students how the U.S. government exposed soldiers and sailors to radiation during early atomic testing, then later denied compensation and recognition to veterans who experienced a range of illnesses. A useful video for showing students a little-known aspect of America’s rise to power, this story also helps students compare the treatment of returning veterans in America’s recent wars (Afghanistan, Iraq) to the plight of veterans in the past.