The United States government secretly brought over 1,600 German scientists and engineers to America after World War II.

After defeating Germany in 1945, the US wanted to grab the best scientific minds before the Soviet Union could. Under a secret program called Operation Paperclip, the military brought more than 1,600 German experts to America. Many were dedicated members of the Nazi party, and some even served in dangerous groups like the SS. Instead of facing trials for war crimes, they were given comfortable jobs working for the US government.