| Source | The Times, 17th April 1961 |
| Event referred to | 12th April 1961: Yuri Gagarin – First Man in Space |
| Technological characteristics | Text file, scanned into computer |
| Description of the source | Newspaper article from library microfiche archive. |
| Contextualisation of the source | The Times newspaper is regarded as being a conservative paper, expressing conservative views. This article appeared five days after the event and was a report of a statement made on 16th April in Moscow. Other reports which appeared in the days after the event tended to be factual in nature, with no real opinion being expressed. The reporting of this statement has a different tone however and does not report facts. |
| Interpretation of the source | This article could be regarded as introducing an element of doubt about the events of the previous five days. The article suggests that the Russians are being evasive in not providing details of the landing of Gagarin and details of the space craft. In making such a suggestion there is a hint or suggestion that the events might have been faked.
Casting doubt on the Russian portrayal of events could be regarded as part of the Cold War battle of words which was on-going at this time. It is emphasising the secrecy which Russia was criticised for by the West. This view is typical of Western views of Russia and as such is helpful in providing evidence of British opinions. |
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