This book is a thoroughly documented and detailed account of the atomic bomb project. The authors use the files of the Manhattan Project, scientific research reports, correspondence, personal interviews, and site visits as sources of information. They discuss the question of military versus civilian control of atomic energy and describe in detail the differences in opinion surrounding that controversy. Although the focus of the book is the scientific and engineering challenges facing Manhattan Project officials, it also discusses diifficult administrative decisions regarding funding, personnel problems, and political disputes that occurred at the conclusion of World War II. This book was the first of a series of histories sponsored by the U.S. Atomic Energy Commission. Using the same style of presentation, Volume 2, Atomic Shield , continues the history of the Commission until 1952.