Cuban Missile Crisis Flashcards
what happened during the crisis?
In October 1962 the Soviet’s started placing nuclear missiles in Cuba and the USA started using U2 planes to spy on Cuba.
why did this increase tensions?
it was the moment when they came closest to nuclear war
if they went ahead with it the US would have wanted revenge causing more conflict
it caused suspicion - US spying
why did this happen?
The Soviet Union placing weapons showed power and was seen as a threat. The USA were spying because fearful of a nuclear missile being launched into their country.
what was Kennedy’s response?
On the 16th October 1962, he formed a team of advisors - Ex Comm.
On October 22nd he ordered a Naval quarantine of Cuba (Blockade) so no more missiles could enter Cuba.
what agreements were made?
On the 26th and 27th October it was agreed that the USSR would remove missiles from Cuba in return for a promise from the US not to invade the island. They also wanted the US to remove missiles in turkey.
what were the results of the crisis?
Cuba stayed Communist & was highly armed but nuclear missiles were removed
A Hotline was set up between the White House and the Kremlin and a Nuclear Test Ban treaty was signed in 1963
