The Cuban Missile Crisis: Kennedy's Decisive Address

In 1962, President John F. Kennedy addressed the nation about the Soviet Union's installation of nuclear missiles in Cuba, which posed a direct threat to the United States and other nations in the Western Hemisphere. Kennedy declared that any missile attack from Cuba would be considered an act of war by the Soviet Union, prompting a full retaliatory response. To prevent further escalation, Kennedy ordered a naval quarantine of Cuba. The crisis highlighted the immense risk of nuclear war between the two superpowers, emphasizing the need for peace and freedom. The media reacted strongly, with headlines suggesting the world was on the brink of World War III.

What was the geopolitical context during Kennedy's address?

• The Soviet Union had no influence in Eastern Europe.

• The United States and the Soviet Union were allies.

• The Soviet Union was led by Nikita Khrushchev.

• The United States was part of the Communist Bloc.

Where did President Kennedy announce the Soviet Union had installed nuclear missiles?

• Puerto Rico

• Bermuda

• Cuba

• Mexico

What was Kennedy's policy regarding a nuclear missile launched from Cuba?

• It would be handled diplomatically.

• It would be seen as a local conflict.

• It would be considered an attack by the Soviet Union.

• It would be ignored.

What action did Kennedy decide to take against Cuba?

• Order air strikes on Cuba.

• Invade the Soviet Union.

• Order a quarantine of Cuba.

• Impose an embargo on Russia.

What was the potential risk of a direct confrontation between the United States and the Soviet Union?

• A trade embargo.

• A diplomatic resolution.

• A nuclear war with no winners.

• A minor skirmish.

How did Kennedy reassure Americans in his address?

• By ignoring the Soviet threat.

• By promising to retreat.

• By stating he would not act recklessly.

• By declaring war immediately.

What was the media's reaction to Kennedy's address?

• They supported the Soviet Union.

• They declared Kennedy ready for a Soviet showdown.

• They ignored it.

• They called for immediate peace talks.