On December 2, 1942, the first self-sustaining nuclear reaction took place under the squash courts at the University of Chicago. At the helm of this momentous occasion was noted physicist Enrico Fermi. It was a tremendous event and this website pays tribute to his work and legacy. Crafted by librarian Andrea Twiss-Brooks at the University of Chicago, the site contains primary documents related to this event, a biography of Fermi, an image gallery, and suggestions for further reading. FIrst-time visitors might do well to start with About Enrico Fermi for a bit of background information about this remarkable scientist. The Commemorative Events area contains information about the stamps created in his honor, along with information about the statute created by Henry Moore for the test site. The most unique document here is the digital audio files of the 2-album set "To Fermi-With Love." It's a remarkable audio tribute to the man and his work, and visitors can listen to his voice here. Finally the Image Gallery contains a number of key images related to this event, along with a hand-drawn sketch of the test site and anniversary photos of the various scientists involved.
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