The rise of Nazism provided von Braun with resources and opportunities to pursue his rocketry ambitions, but also entangled him in a morally compromised regime.

Operation Paperclip reflected the US government's desire to acquire scientific and technological expertise from Germany in the context of the escalating Cold War. Von Braun's expertise was seen as crucial for countering Soviet technological advancements.

The Cold War rivalry between the United States and the Soviet Union fueled the Space Race, providing strong political and economic incentives for space exploration. Von Braun's work became central to America's efforts to surpass the Soviet Union in space technology.

While the Apollo program initially enjoyed broad public support, by the late 1960s and early 1970s, public opinion shifted, and funding for space exploration was reduced. This shift reflected changing national priorities and concerns about social and economic issues.