Week_7_Project
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Southern New Hampshire University *
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Course
100
Subject
History
Date
Dec 6, 2023
Type
docx
Pages
7
Uploaded by LieutenantHackerFinch8328
HIS 100
Professor Jessica Cappadona
Alfonso Gonzalez
14 October 2023
HIS 100 Project Template
Use this template to address the steps in your Project Guidelines and Rubric. Replace the bracketed text
with your responses. Ensure that you have considered your instructor’s feedback when revising your
work. Proofread the entire document before submitting.
Part 1: Creating a Research Question
1.
Describe how your assumptions, beliefs, and values influenced your choice of topic.
I chose this topic because I believe that historical events have enduring impacts on societies. The
Chernobyl disaster, in particular, stands out as a pivotal moment in history, and understanding its
ramifications motivated my decision to research it further. Environmental concerns have always
been important to me; our collective responsibility to live sustainably and protect our planet
underscores the importance of this issue. Chernobyl's profound environmental consequences
further fueled my interest.
Sustainability, a key aspect of environmental responsibility, often relies on cutting-edge
technologies like nuclear power. However, these technologies come with risks, and these risks
are sometimes obscured by government actions and a lack of transparency. The Chernobyl
disaster serves as a grim reminder of these risks, driving home the importance of learning from
history to avoid repeating past mistakes.
My research into this event has shed light on the risks associated with nuclear energy as a
sustainable option. It has also emphasized the critical roles of government accountability, safety
regulations, and effective communication in crisis situations. These aspects collectively
motivated me to choose this topic, as I believe that understanding the past is fundamental to
shaping a more sustainable and responsible future.
2.
Discuss the significance of your historical research question in relation to your current event.
Exploring the research question concerning the Chernobyl disaster and its connections to Cold
War policies helped me better understand the historical roots of the Fukushima nuclear disaster.
This exploration offered vital insights into how political, social, and economic factors can impact
nuclear accidents. It underscored that the Fukushima incident was not an isolated event but
rather part of a broader historical context involving nuclear energy and global geopolitics.
1
As I researched the Chernobyl disaster, it became evident that the Soviet Union's secrecy and lax
safety protocols played a pivotal role in the tragedy. This revelation allowed me to draw parallels
with Japan's approach to nuclear energy regulation and safety measures leading up to the
Fukushima disaster.
1
Although Fukushima is a more recent event, the years that have elapsed
since Chernobyl enable us to examine its enduring effects on the environment, public health,
and the perception of nuclear power, providing valuable insights into what we can anticipate
from the Fukushima meltdown.
Exploring the aftermath of the Chernobyl disaster, as documented by experts like Alexey V.
Yablokov and Vassily B. Nesterenko, emphasized the critical role of scientific research and
advocacy in addressing nuclear catastrophes. This knowledge inspired me to seek out similar
studies and voices regarding the consequences of Fukushima.
2
3.
Explain how you used sources to finalize your research question.
During the process of finalizing my research question concerning the Chernobyl disaster, I relied
on a range of sources that played important roles in several key ways. Primarily, these sources
served as important background information. To gain a comprehensive understanding of the
disaster's context, I looked into historical texts, scholarly articles, and first-hand reports. This was
instrumental in helping me appreciate the event's significance within the broader framework of
Cold War policies and the Soviet Union's nuclear program.
To trace the sequence of events and pinpoint critical policy decisions that might have
contributed to the catastrophe, I examined primary and secondary sources. These included
government reports, survivor testimonies, and academic analyses. Given that my research
question centered on the enduring environmental and health consequences, it was important to
incorporate scientific studies and environmental assessments into my inquiry.
Furthermore, I recognized the importance of highlighting the roles of ideology, secrecy, and
technological factors in shaping the disaster's narrative. To achieve this, I incorporated
historiographical perspectives, which added depth and context to my research question.
Part 2: Building Context to Address Questions
1.
Describe the context of your historical event that influenced your current event.
The context of the Chernobyl disaster had a significant impact on the Fukushima meltdown
event. Chernobyl served as a stark warning about the dangers of nuclear power when safety
measures are compromised. Decades later, the Fukushima disaster benefited from the lessons
learned at Chernobyl. Engineers and policymakers worldwide had a better understanding of
nuclear reactor vulnerabilities, which influenced safety regulations and emergency preparedness
at Fukushima.
3
Chernobyl also profoundly affected public perceptions of nuclear energy. The disaster
heightened concerns about nuclear power plant safety, leading to increased scrutiny and
skepticism. This awareness influenced the political and social dynamics surrounding the
Fukushima disaster, as the public demanded greater transparency and accountability from the
government and the nuclear industry.
4
1 Retrieved from https://www.nei.org/resources/fact-sheets/comparing-fukushima-and-chernobyl
2 Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2974725/
3 Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK253947/
4 Retrieved from https://storymaps.arcgis.com/stories/cc914a87c5e64b4bafa7f89e69127d6b
2
Furthermore, Chernobyl prompted the establishment or strengthening of regulatory bodies
overseeing nuclear facilities. In Japan, this influenced the Nuclear and Industrial Safety Agency
(NISA) and its approach to safety inspections and regulations. The Fukushima disaster revealed
regulatory deficiencies, prompting further reforms and efforts to ensure compliance with
international safety standards.
5
4.
Describe a historical figure or group’s participation in your historical event.
A key historical figure central to the Chernobyl disaster was Anatoly Dyatlov, the deputy chief
engineer of the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant and the supervisor of the ill-fated safety test that
led to the explosion of reactor No. 4. Dyatlov played a critical role in the events leading up to the
disaster.
On the night of April 25, 1986, Dyatlov pushed forward with the safety test despite several
indicators that conditions were not suitable for it. He disregarded safety protocols, overrode the
objections of his subordinates, and ordered the reactor to be brought to dangerously low power
levels. These actions directly contributed to the reactor's instability, leading to the catastrophic
explosion the following morning.
Dyatlov's actions were widely criticized, and he was later found guilty of gross violations of safety
regulations and sentenced to ten years in prison. His role in the Chernobyl disaster highlighted
the systemic flaws and inadequate training within the Soviet nuclear industry, as well as the
culture of fear and pressure to meet production quotas that often prevailed in the Soviet system.
Dyatlov's participation in the event symbolizes the tragic consequences of mismanagement and
the human errors that can lead to devastating accidents in complex technological systems.
6
5.
Explain the historical figure or group’s motivation to participate in your historical event
.
Anatoly Dyatlov's motivation to participate in the Chernobyl disaster, while not driven by
malicious intent, was rooted in a complex combination of factors. At the heart of his motivation
was the intense pressure and drive to meet production quotas and demonstrate the capabilities
of the Soviet nuclear industry during a time of heightened political scrutiny and competition with
the West.
7
The Soviet Union was engaged in a race with the United States during the Cold War, not only in
terms of military might but also in the realm of technological achievements. The Chernobyl
Nuclear Power Plant was a flagship project meant to showcase the Soviet Union's mastery of
nuclear energy. Dyatlov likely felt a profound pressure to ensure the success of the safety test to
maintain the reputation of the plant and, by extension, the Soviet nuclear program.
In the Soviet system, adherence to party doctrine and directives was very important. Dyatlov, as
a high-ranking engineer, was expected to follow orders from superiors and implement policies
5 Retrieved from https://www.iaea.org/newscenter/statements/statement-international-conference-chernobyl-
twenty-five-years-safety-future
6 Retrieved from https://allthatsinteresting.com/anatoly-dyatlov
7 Retrieved from https://www.rbth.com/history/330525-anatoly-dyatlov-chernobyl
3
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without question. This obedience to authority played a significant role in his decision to proceed
with the test, even when he had reservations.
8
Success in the Soviet system often led to career advancement, perks, and privileges. Dyatlov may
have seen the successful completion of the test as a way to enhance his career prospects and
gain favor with superiors. Conversely, failure or refusal to carry out orders could have
jeopardized his position and livelihood.
In summary, Dyatlov's motivation to participate in the Chernobyl disaster can be attributed to a
combination of external pressures, ideological beliefs, a lack of comprehensive understanding of
the risks involved, and personal incentives within the Soviet system. These factors, when
combined, led to his ill-fated decisions that contributed to the catastrophic event.
Part 3: Examining How Bias Impacts Narrative
1.
Describe a narrative you identified while researching the history of your historical event.
While researching the Chernobyl disaster, I identified a narrative centered on the belief in
technology as the ultimate problem-solver, often referred to as "Technological Hubris." This
narrative underscores the excessive confidence surrounding the development and operation of
nuclear technology during the Cold War era, revealing the devastating consequences when this
confidence remained unchecked.
During the Cold War, the Soviet Union, like other nuclear-armed nations, regarded nuclear
technology as a symbol of scientific superiority and national pride. The construction of nuclear
reactors and power plants was hailed as proof of Soviet scientific and technological prowess.
9
Given the paramount importance of nuclear technology to the Soviet Union, this narrative also
brings to light the culture of secrecy that shrouded the Soviet nuclear program. Critical decisions
were made behind closed doors, and information was tightly controlled. This lack of
transparency contributed to a sense of invincibility and unchecked experimentation.
The rush to showcase technological superiority further led to shortcuts in safety measures and a
disregard for potential risks. This narrative underscores the overconfidence in the safety and
reliability of nuclear technology.
10
Engineers and operators at Chernobyl believed that
catastrophic accidents were nearly impossible, fostering complacency in adhering to safety
protocols.
11
6.
Articulate how biased perspectives presented in primary and secondary sources influence
what is known or unknown about history.
Biased perspectives presented in primary and secondary sources have a profound impact on our
understanding of history. They can significantly influence what is known or unknown about
historical events in several ways. For instance, biased sources often cherry-pick information that
aligns with the author's agenda while disregarding contradictory evidence, resulting in an
incomplete or one-sided view of history. Moreover, these sources may misinterpret facts or
events to fit a specific narrative, distorting the historical record and perpetuating inaccuracies.
8 Retrieved from https://www.loc.gov/exhibits/archives/sovi.html
9 Retrieved from https://www.jstor.org/stable/2501914
10 Retrieved from https://missouriindependent.com/2023/08/04/the-nuclear-arms-races-legacy-contamination-
staggering-cleanup-costs-and-a-culture-of-secrecy/
11 Retrieved from https://www.pbs.org/wgbh/pages/frontline/shows/reaction/readings/chernobyl.html
4
Furthermore, biased sources tend to exclude or dismiss alternative viewpoints and
interpretations of history, limiting the exploration of diverse perspectives and stifling critical
thinking. Additionally, some sources driven by bias may serve political or ideological agendas,
shaping historical narratives to support a particular cause or belief system. This manipulation can
distort the portrayal of events and individuals, further complicating the quest for an accurate
historical understanding.
7.
Identify the perspectives that you think are missing from your historical event’s narrative.
Within the narrative of the Chernobyl nuclear disaster, several perspectives remain absent or
underrepresented. For instance, the narratives of local communities, especially those residing in
the immediate vicinity of the Chernobyl plant who bore the direct brunt of the disaster, are
frequently marginalized. Their stories and struggles are indispensable for grasping the human
impact of the catastrophe.
Similarly, the voices of firefighters, plant workers, and first responders who displayed exceptional
heroism in combating the initial blaze and mitigating the disaster sometimes receive insufficient
acknowledgment. Their courage, dedication and the immense challenges they confronted amid
extreme radiation exposure deserve greater recognition.
Additionally, dissent and activism within the Soviet Union related to the Chernobyl disaster,
encompassing efforts to raise awareness, demand transparency, and hold authorities
accountable, are at times overshadowed by the broader political context. These perspectives
provide insight into the difficulties of dissenting within a repressive regime.
12
Lastly, the broader implications of the Chernobyl disaster for global nuclear policies, safety
standards, and the evolution of the nuclear energy industry are occasionally downplayed.
Understanding how Chernobyl influenced international nuclear discourse holds substantial
significance.
13
Part 4: Connecting the past with the present
8.
Explain how researching its historical roots helped improve your understanding of your current
event.
Exploring the historical roots of the Chernobyl disaster enhanced my understanding of the
Fukushima nuclear disaster in Japan. Through this research I acquired a more profound technical
grasp of nuclear reactor operations, safety protocols, and the potential repercussions of
catastrophic nuclear events. This knowledge proved invaluable in comprehending the technical
intricacies of the Fukushima meltdown, including reactor designs and failure mechanisms.
Furthermore, the research showed the critical significance of safety protocols and regulatory
oversight in nuclear power generation. It became evident that both Chernobyl and Fukushima
shared common issues related to regulatory failures and safety lapses. This understanding of the
historical context of regulatory shortcomings at Chernobyl allowed me to better comprehend
similar issues at Fukushima.
14
Moreover, analyzing how the Chernobyl disaster was managed, encompassing the initial
response and long-term mitigation efforts, provided invaluable insights into crisis management
12 Retrieved from https://www.keele.ac.uk/extinction/controversy/chernobylandussr/
13 Retrieved from https://www.nrc.gov/reading-rm/doc-collections/fact-sheets/chernobyl-bg.html
14 Retrieved from https://www.nei.org/resources/fact-sheets/comparing-fukushima-and-chernobyl
5
within the nuclear industry. This knowledge directly contributed to assessing the response to the
Fukushima crisis, allowing for the identification of both similarities and differences in emergency
procedures and decision-making.
Furthermore, investigating the long-term environmental and health consequences of Chernobyl
shed light on the potential enduring effects of nuclear disasters. This knowledge was
instrumental in evaluating the long-term impact of radiation exposure and contamination in
Fukushima.
Lastly, studying how Chernobyl instigated policy and regulatory changes in nuclear safety
standards and practices deepened my appreciation for how Fukushima influenced similar
reforms and discussions concerning the future of nuclear energy in Japan and on a global scale.
15
9.
Articulate how questioning your assumptions, beliefs, and values may benefit you as an
individual.
Questioning one's assumptions, beliefs, and values offers several significant benefits to
individuals. It serves as a catalyst for critical thinking, prompting individuals to scrutinize the
foundations of their beliefs and contemplate alternative perspectives. This process leads to more
informed and reasoned decision-making.
Moreover, questioning deeply held beliefs and values fosters self-awareness, as individuals
reflect on the origins and motivations behind their values. This introspection results in a deeper
understanding of oneself and promotes personal growth.
Furthermore, embracing an open attitude toward questioning and exploring new ideas and
perspectives cultivates an open-minded and adaptable mindset. It encourages continuous
learning and a willingness to consider alternative viewpoints.
By challenging assumptions, individuals can approach problems and challenges with greater
flexibility, allowing them to consider a wide range of solutions and adapt their strategies when
necessary.
10.
Discuss how being a more historically informed citizen may help you understand
contemporary issues.
Being a historically informed citizen significantly enhances one's understanding of contemporary
issues and equips them to make more informed voting decisions. Historical knowledge provides
essential context for comprehending current events by unveiling their historical roots, evolution,
and the pivotal decisions that have led to their current state.
Moreover, history uncovers recurring patterns and trends across different contexts, enabling
individuals to identify common themes and tendencies that aid in analyzing contemporary issues
and predicting potential outcomes. Since many current issues have their origins in the past,
historical knowledge allows individuals to recognize the enduring consequences of past
decisions, leading to a more comprehensive assessment of the present.
Furthermore, historical knowledge empowers individuals to acknowledge progress in addressing
certain issues while highlighting areas where challenges persist. This perspective fosters a
deeper understanding of the trajectory of change. Informed citizens are better prepared to
actively engage in democratic processes, make well-founded voting choices, and hold elected
officials accountable. Additionally, historical knowledge equips citizens with the historical context
necessary for comprehending policies and political decisions.
15 Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4899336/
6
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Works Cited
Nuclear Energy Institute. (n.d.). Comparing Fukushima and Chernobyl.
[https://www.nei.org/resources/fact-sheets/comparing-fukushima-and-chernobyl]
National Center for Biotechnology Information. (2011). Chernobyl's Legacy: Health,
Environmental and Socio-Economic Impacts.
[https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2974725/]
National Center for Biotechnology Information. (2020). Radiation: Health Effects.
[https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK253947/]
ArcGIS StoryMaps. (n.d.). Chernobyl: A Legacy of Disaster.
[https://storymaps.arcgis.com/stories/cc914a87c5e64b4bafa7f89e69127d6b]
International Atomic Energy Agency. (2011). Statement at the International Conference on
Chernobyl - Twenty-Five Years On: Safety for the Future.
[https://www.iaea.org/newscenter/statements/statement-international-conference-
chernobyl-twenty-five-years-safety-future]
All That's Interesting. (n.d.). The Tragic Story Of Anatoly Dyatlov, The Man At The Center Of
The Chernobyl Disaster. [https://allthatsinteresting.com/anatoly-dyatlov]
Russia Beyond. (2021). Anatoly Dyatlov: The Man Who Became a Symbol of the Chernobyl
Disaster. [https://www.rbth.com/history/330525-anatoly-dyatlov-chernobyl]
Library of Congress. (n.d.). Soviet Archives. [https://www.loc.gov/exhibits/archives/sovi.html]
JSTOR. (1994). Chernobyl: Examining the Impact. [https://www.jstor.org/stable/2501914]
Missouri Independent. (2023). The Nuclear Arms Race's Legacy: Contamination, Staggering
Cleanup Costs, and a Culture of Secrecy. [https://missouriindependent.com/2023/08/04/the-
nuclear-arms-races-legacy-contamination-staggering-cleanup-costs-and-a-culture-of-secrecy/]
PBS Frontline. (n.d.). Chernobyl: A Safety Record.
[https://www.pbs.org/wgbh/pages/frontline/shows/reaction/readings/chernobyl.html]
Keele University. (n.d.). Chernobyl and the USSR: Controversy, Denial, and Responsibility.
[https://www.keele.ac.uk/extinction/controversy/chernobylandussr/]
U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission. (n.d.). Backgrounder on Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant
Accident. [https://www.nrc.gov/reading-rm/doc-collections/fact-sheets/chernobyl-bg.html]
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