What event initiated the space race AND how did the United States attempt to win? Think about the question carefully. Then enter your answer to BOTH parts of the question in the box provided. square

The launch of Sputnik 1 by the Soviet Union in October 1957 initiated the Space Race.<br /><br />The United States responded in several ways to try and win the Space Race:<br /><br />* **Increased funding for science and math education:** The National Defense Education Act was passed to bolster education in these fields, aiming to produce more scientists and engineers.<br />* **Created NASA:** The National Aeronautics and Space Administration was established in 1958 to manage and develop the US space program.<br />* **Focused on achieving major milestones:** The US concentrated on projects like Project Mercury (putting a man in orbit), Project Gemini (developing spacewalk capabilities), and ultimately Project Apollo (landing a man on the moon). This strategy aimed to surpass the Soviets in highly visible achievements.<br />* **Invested heavily in research and development:** Significant resources were poured into rocket technology, spacecraft design, and astronaut training to accelerate progress.<br />