National Defense Education Act - 1958

Enacting the National Defense Education Act in response to the launch of the Soviet Union's 'Sputnik Satellite', the U.S. Congress hoped to ensure "the security of the nation through the fullest development of the mental skills of young men and women" (Science and Technology Policy Institute, 2005).  The legislation featured student loan programs to increase science and mathematics careers; 'National Defense Fellowships'; and programs to increase knowledge of science and technology.