The Rosenbergs: First Civilians Executed for Espionage

Ethel and Julius Rosenberg were the first US citizens executed for espionage during peacetime. They met in 1936, bonded over communist ideals, and married. Julius worked at a military research facility but was fired due to his communist ties. He was recruited by the Soviets and passed classified documents, including nuclear bomb sketches. Arrested in 1950, both were tried and executed in 1953. Their case remains controversial, with doubts about Ethel's involvement. Their children continue to protest her innocence.

What was significant about Ethel and Julius Rosenberg's conviction?

• They were the first US citizens executed for espionage during peacetime.

• They were the first to be pardoned posthumously.

• They were the first to be tried under the new espionage laws.

• They were the first couple to be tried together for espionage.

Where did Julius Rosenberg work before being fired?

• A military research facility

• A nuclear power plant

• A government intelligence agency

• A private technology firm

Who recruited Julius Rosenberg for espionage activities?

• Lavrentiy Beria

• Nikita Khrushchev

• Igor Kurchatov

• Simeon Simeonov

What was the outcome of the Rosenbergs' trial?

• They were sentenced to death by electric chair.

• They were sentenced to life imprisonment.

• They were deported to the Soviet Union.

• They were acquitted of all charges.

What remains controversial about the Rosenberg case?

• The method of their execution

• The location of their trial

• The involvement of Ethel Rosenberg

• The legality of their trial