History Daily: The First Woman In Space

Released on June 16, 2025

Introduction

In this captivating episode of History Daily, host Lindsey Graham delves into the remarkable journey of Valentina Tereshkova, the first woman to travel to space. Set against the backdrop of the intense Cold War-era Space Race between the Soviet Union and the United States, the episode chronicles the challenges, triumphs, and enduring legacy of Tereshkova's historic mission.

1. The Early Space Race and Yuri Gagarin

The episode opens on April 12, 1961, detailing the historic launch of Soviet cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin—the first human to journey into space. Graham sets the stage by highlighting the stakes of the Space Race, emphasizing the Soviet Union's determination to outpace the United States.

“There are more ways than ever to listen to History Daily ad free,” Graham introduces the episode, seamlessly transitioning into Yuri Gagarin's preparation and launch. She describes Gagarin’s emotions as he boards the Vostok rocket, capturing the tension and anticipation of a mission that could cement Soviet supremacy in space.

2. Soviet Response: Training the First Woman Cosmonaut

Following Gagarin's successful flight, the Soviet leadership is keen to maintain their lead. The episode shifts focus to the Soviet center for Cosmonaut Training, known as Star City, where Nikolai Kamanin grapples with the idea of training a woman cosmonaut.

“We cannot allow that the first woman in space will be American. This would be an insult to the patriotic feelings of Soviet women” (04:50), Kamanin asserts, reflecting his determination to prevent the Americans from claiming another "first." Faced with skepticism and the absence of a pre-existing program for female astronauts, Kamanin initiates a rigorous search for qualified candidates.

3. Valentina Tereshkova's Recruitment and Training

The search leads Kamanin to parachute clubs, identifying women with the necessary experience and physical prowess. Among the recruits is Valentina Tereshkova, a 24-year-old factory worker and avid parachutist whose dream has been ignited by Gagarin's flight.

Tereshkova's application journey is depicted with emotional depth, highlighting her self-doubt and the societal expectations placed upon her. Despite initial reservations from some instructors who disparage women’s capabilities—“the weaker sex” (06:15)—Tereshkova’s unwavering commitment and exceptional performance begin to shift opinions in her favor.

“Spaceflight begins on the ground,” Yuri Gagarin advises Tereshkova (12:30), reinforcing the foundational importance of her rigorous training. Her dedication is evident as she immerses herself in intense physical exercises, hands-on training, and complex scientific studies, striving to prove her place in the male-dominated field.

4. Selection and Preparation for Launch

By late 1962, Tereshkova emerges as the standout candidate. Despite the grueling process, she is ultimately chosen to represent the Soviet Union as the first woman in space. The episode captures the emotional weight of this selection, culminating in Soviet Premier Nikita Khrushchev’s endorsement.

“She is the perfect poster child for Soviet greatness,” Khrushchev declares (15:40), acknowledging both her personal merit and the propaganda value of her mission. As the launch date approaches, Tereshkova’s nerves resurface, but the support from Yuri Gagarin offers her reassurance.

5. Valentina Tereshkova's Historic Mission

On June 16, 1963, Tereshkova boards the Vostok 6 rocket, mirroring Gagarin’s earlier journey. The episode vividly narrates her launch sequence, from the tense moments before ignition to the exhilarating experience of orbiting Earth.

“I see the horizon. There is a blue stripe. This is the Earth. How beautiful it is,” Tereshkova exclaims as she completes her mission (19:05). Her successful orbit lasting nearly three days not only marks a significant milestone in space exploration but also serves as a powerful symbol of women's capabilities.

6. Legacy and Impact

Upon her return, Tereshkova is celebrated as a national hero. She leverages her platform to advocate for the inclusion of women in space travel, emphasizing that human spaceflight cannot advance without their participation.

“A bird cannot fly with one wing only. Human spaceflight cannot develop any further without the active participation of women,” Tereshkova asserts at a 2013 UN celebration commemorating her flight (20:30). Her advocacy underscores the enduring importance of gender diversity in scientific and exploratory endeavors.

The episode also touches on the subsequent stagnation of female cosmonaut programs in the Soviet Union and parallels with the American space program, which would not see its first female astronaut until 1983 with Dr. Sally Ride.

Conclusion

Lindsey Graham's History Daily masterfully weaves the narrative of Valentina Tereshkova's pioneering journey, highlighting her resilience and the broader geopolitical context of her mission. Tereshkova's legacy as the first woman in space continues to inspire and remind us of the crucial role women play in advancing human achievement.

Notable Quotes:

• “We cannot allow that the first woman in space will be American. This would be an insult to the patriotic feelings of Soviet women” — Nikolai Kamanin (04:50)

• “Spaceflight begins on the ground” — Yuri Gagarin to Valentina Tereshkova (12:30)

• “She is the perfect poster child for Soviet greatness” — Nikita Khrushchev (15:40)

• “I see the horizon. There is a blue stripe. This is the Earth. How beautiful it is,” — Valentina Tereshkova (19:05)

• “A bird cannot fly with one wing only. Human spaceflight cannot develop any further without the active participation of women,” — Valentina Tereshkova (20:30)

History Daily continues to offer insightful explorations of pivotal historical moments, bringing to life the stories that have shaped our world.