in 22 April 1904, was born Robert Oppenheimer, the physicist who led the Σχεδίου Μανχάταν and went down in history as "the father of the atomic bomb". His contribution to science changed the course of history, but also left a personal and moral mark on him.
Robert Oppenheimer and the Atomic Bomb
As director of the laboratory at Λος Άλαμος, Oppenheimer played a key role in the development of the first nuclear bomb, which was used in the Hiroshima and Nagasaki in August 1945. After the successful test of the bomb on 16 July 1945 (known as “Trinity Test”), he reportedly said the famous words from the Μπαγκαβάτ Γκίτα:
"Now I have become Death, the destroyer of worlds."
This phrase reflected his internal conflicts. Although he contributed to one of the most destructive creations of mankind, he later tried to prevent further arms competition, which brought him into conflict with the US government.
His Fall and Death
During the Cold War, Oppenheimer was targeted by the anti-communist hysteria of the time. In 1954, the US government revoked his security clearance, citing his past association with communist circles. The one-time hero of science became an undesirable person.
He spent the last years of his life in relative isolation, continuing his research in theoretical physics. In 1967, he was diagnosed with cancer of the larynx, probably due to excessive smoking. He died on 18 Φεβρουαρίου 1967, σε ηλικία 62 ετώνat his home in Princeton.
The Revival of Oppenheimer through Art
The story of Oppenheimer has inspired many works, but the 2023 was brought to cinematic life through the film “Oppenheimer” of Christopher Nolan. Ο Killian Murphy interpreted the scientist with impressive accuracy, presenting both his brilliance and his inner conflicts.
The film highlights the divided man behind the disaster, έναν επιστήμονα που κινήθηκε μεταξύ δόξας και ενοχής, leaving an indelible imprint on history.
Oppenheimer may have passed away decades ago, but his legacy - both in science and in moral reflection on the limits of technology - remains relevant today.
