pg 38 to 42: US Blockade, Consequences of Cuban Missile crisis Flashcards
(10 cards)
When did Kennedy learn about the Cuban missiles?
October 16, 1962
What action did Kennedy announce on October 22, 1962, in response to the missiles in Cuba?
A naval blockade of Cuba.
What was the purpose of the US blockade of Cuba?
To stop Soviet ships from bringing any more missiles to the island, and to pressure for the removal of existing missiles.
What was “Defence Condition 2” and when was it used?
The highest stage of readiness for war for US nuclear bombers and missiles; the only time it happened in the Cold War.
What was Khrushchev’s initial secret proposal to Kennedy on October 26, 1962?
If Kennedy promised not to invade Cuba, Khrushchev would withdraw the missiles from the island.
What two events worsened the crisis on the morning after Khrushchev’s first proposal?
An American U-2 spy-plane was shot down over Cuba, and Khrushchev sent a tougher, public telegram demanding removal of Jupiter missiles from Turkey.
What was the “hot line” and when was it set up?
A direct telephonic link between the Kremlin (USSR) and the White House (USA), set up in 1963 to improve communication and prevent future crises.
What was the Test Ban Treaty of 1963?
A treaty signed by the US and USSR promising not to test nuclear weapons in the atmosphere, under water, or in outer space.
What was the impact of the Cuban Missile Crisis on Khrushchev’s political career?
He was seen by many at home as an embarrassing failure, which ultimately led to his forced resignation in 1964.
What was the overall outcome of the Cuban Missile Crisis for the Cold War?
It helped thaw relations between the US and USSR, led to improved communication (hot line), and a nuclear war was averted.
