Background Information and Instructions
The Cuban Missile Crisis was a 13 day crisis for the United States in which our security level was raised to DEFCON (Defense Condition) 2, the highest in history at that time. This crisis was the closest the Cold War ever got to becoming a "hot" war. The Crisis was a result of the discovery of a nuclear missile base under construction in Cuba.
As you examine the images below, consider, what was the Cuban Missile Crisis? In what ways did the Cold War become a global war?
As you examine the images below, consider, what was the Cuban Missile Crisis? In what ways did the Cold War become a global war?
U.S. Representative Adlai E. Stevenson displayed evidence of the missile bases during a UN meeting held on October 25, 1962. Stevenson challenged his Soviet counterpart to deny the evidence, reminding him, "You are in the courtroom of world opinion right now." [Photo from U.S. Department of State, Office of the Historian collection]
Why was a U.N. meeting held to address the crisis? What is the role of the U.N.? |
On the morning of October 14, 1962, a U-2 aircraft, piloted by Air Force Maj. Richard D. Heyser, flew a reconnaissance mission over the western part of Cuba, flying from south to north. The 928 photographs obtained during the 6-minute flight over the island produced the first verified evidence of the existence of Soviet offensive missile sites in Cuba. Analysis and interpretation of the photographs at the National Photographic Intelligence Center revealed that three medium-range ballistic missile sites were being developed near San Cristobal, in Pinar del Rio province. Photo analysts counted eight large MRBM transporters at the three locations and four erector launchers in tentative firing positions.
If you are a United States intelligence officer, what do you assume might be going on? (hint: what is the global context at the moment?) |
San Cristoral MREM Site #1: Low-level photography was obtained of the San Cristobal MREM site #1 on October 23, 1962. Shown in this enlargement is a line of vehicles (oxidizer tank trailers). In addition, since October 14, fuel tank trailers, a missile shelter tent, and other equipment were introduced into the area. The missile erector now lies under canvas cover. Extensive vehicle trackage, coupled with construction of cable lines to control areas, highlights the tempo of Soviet activity.
Describe Cuba’s position relative to the United States (use cardinal directions and approximate miles). Why would a picture like this be a problem for the U.S.? |
(Re) Sources Referenced
- "Cuban Missile Crisis." John F. Kennedy Presidential Library & Museum. John F. Kennedy Presidential Library & Museum, n.d. Web. 2 Apr. 2015.
- "The Cuban Missile Crisis, 1962: The Photographs." National Security Archive: The Cuban Missile Crisis, 1962: The Photographs. George Washington University, n.d. Web. 1 Apr. 2015.