Project Apollo in American Memory and Myth

摘要

This paper presents an historical perspective on the importance of Project Apollo from the perspective of the end of the twentieth century and the millennium. After thirty years, it is only now becoming possible to assess the significance of the lunar landings, accomplished between 1969 and 1972, with any degree of historical perspective. This essay discusses the key elements of the American public's memory about Apollo and why it was important, and is suggestive of the myths that have emerged since the landings and how they have affected the course of American society.