After the launch of Russia's "Sputnik," which institution faced significant criticism in the United States?

The criticism directed towards the American educational system following the launch of Russia's "Sputnik" in 1957 stemmed from concerns about the perceived inadequacies in science and mathematics education in the United States. The successful launch of Sputnik, the first artificial satellite, demonstrated Soviet technological superiority and raised fears regarding the United States' capabilities in science and technology, particularly during the Cold War era.

In response to this, there was a widespread belief that American schools were not adequately preparing students to compete in the technological and scientific arenas. This led to increased advocacy for reforms in the educational system, including a greater emphasis on science and mathematics curricula. The National Defense Education Act of 1958 was a direct outcome of this situation, providing funding to improve education in these critical areas.

Thus, the significant criticism of the educational system following Sputnik was tied to the broader national anxiety about the Soviet Union's technological advancements and the need for America to strengthen its educational frameworks to foster a new generation of scientists and engineers capable of competing on a global scale.