Pulitzer Prize History Winner

Scientists Against Time

by James Phinney Baxter III

Summary

Baxter tells how American scientists and engineers mobilized during the Second World War to develop radar, the proximity fuze, new medicines, and ultimately the atomic bomb. He shows the urgent race to turn laboratory research into weapons and tools before the enemy could, stressing teamwork between government, universities, and industry. The book stands as an early authoritative account of wartime science and its decisive role in victory.

Historical Context & Significance

Baxter served as official historian of the wartime Office of Scientific Research and Development, giving him access to the programs he described.