During the 1950s, America and the Soviet Union were locked in an intense political and military standoff called the Cold War. Out of this competition came the greatest adventure of mankind to date: humans left Earth and went into space, changing history forever. Through accessible yet engaging text, captivating photographs, and informative sidebars, readers will learn about the first rockets launched during World War II, and Russian cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin who was the first man in space. Details of the long and dangerous trip when Neil Armstrong, Edwin "Buzz" Aldrin, and Michael Collins finally set foot on the moon will enrapture readers. Students will explore how past successes and failures have led to present-day accomplishments.