NHD Process Paper

How did I choose my topic and how does it relate to the annual theme?

The Space Race was chosen due to the amount of knowledge I had when working with it. Since I've had
experience with this topic, it created an ideal amount of work compared to other topics that I might have
knowledge on. On top of having prior knowledge, this topic came with an easy timeline to work off of
and many examples towards. The information given to me, allowed me to relate it to the annual theme
through the diplomacy aspect. Throughout the event, it is seen how the USSR and US went about their
business while maintaining good relations.

How did I conduct my research?

Researching my topics was mainly focused on the main timeline of the event. I focused on what
happened, when it happened, who was involved and the effect it had. when gathering my information in
a general summary, it allowed for me to look over and pick for examples towards my argument. And
since I had a decent knowledge of my topic, it allowed for me to do my research towards smaller details
that would give me and others a better understanding over the topic. In the end, my research was very
general as a way to help build my argument.

How did I create my project?

I created a website to talk about all the aspects of my topic. I started with simple information about my
topic so I could get a stronger grip towards what I was arguing. I created a timeline to summarize the
process of the Space Race and then went further into detail about those involved. Using this information
and finding a video on my topic allowed me to create a simple answer to how my topic related to the
diplomacy side of the topic. In the end, my project was a summary in order to help with my argument.

What is your historical argument?

I argued that my topic resided among the diplomatic exchanges of history. Although it didn't exactly
follow the verbal type of diplomacy, it still followed diplomacy as a time of managing international
relations. Through the Space Race, constant examples of how elected officials would manage the public
affairs around space technology came up. Whether through a speech from a president or just the
launching of another spacecraft, it was all constantly managed by higher office and space officials of
each country. Adding on, no discussions between the countries were made, meaning my topic doesn't
fall under debate but instead, diplomacy.

In what ways is your topic significant in history?

Significance behind the Space Race can be taken from many angles. The main reason it's significant is
due to the amount of technology and growth it brought each country. Not only would space equipment
be improved, all types of machines and technology would end up being improved after this race.
Furthermore, it is seen that the US and USSR agree to a shared project between their space stations so,
in hindsight, it would allow for strong change to technology along with a relationship endowed with
amiability. So, the Space race would encourage more technological improvements and possibly, better
relationships.