Context and Essential QuestionIn October of 1962, an American U-2 spy plane detected missile launch sites being built on Cuban soil, pushing the United States and the Soviet Union into the Cuban Missile Crisis. While Kennedy had promoted peaceful ideals and the desire for nuclear arms treaties throughout his tenure, the Soviet potential to hit the United States with weapons forced him into action. Before his address to the American people, Kennedy informed Chairman Khrushchev of the US position, what action it would take, and what solution would be accepted. Reiterating that the quarantine was not a declaration of war, Kennedy positioned himself strategically, offering Khrushchev a way out but maintaining a position of strength.
Essential Question: Was the naval quarantine the best option given the situation? What are the benefits to informing your adversary of your intentions? Source:
Kennedy, John. "Cuban Missile Crisis - John F. Kennedy Presidential Library & Museum." Cuban Missile Crisis - John F. Kennedy Presidential Library & Museum. The JFK Library. Web. 10 Aug. 2015. <http://microsites.jfklibrary.org/cmc/oct22>. |
Letter to Chairman Khrushchev |