October 22 in American History

October 22, 1962 — JFK reveals the Cuban Missile Crisis

President Kennedy went on television to tell Americans that the Soviet Union had placed nuclear missiles in Cuba, and announced a naval blockade of the island. For thirteen days the world stood closer to nuclear war than ever before — until a tense, quiet deal pulled both sides back from the brink.

Common Questions About October 22

What happened on October 22 in American history?

In 1962: JFK reveals the Cuban Missile Crisis. President Kennedy went on television to tell Americans that the Soviet Union had placed nuclear missiles in Cuba, and announced a naval blockade of the island.

Why is October 22 significant?

President Kennedy went on television to tell Americans that the Soviet Union had placed nuclear missiles in Cuba, and announced a naval blockade of the island. For thirteen days the world stood closer to nuclear war than ever before — until a tense, quiet deal pulled both sides back from the brink.

The Daily Poll · Weigh In

What matters most in a national crisis?

Opinion, not a quiz — no wrong answer.

★ Forge Your Freedom

How Well Do You Know American History?

Your Freedom Score puts a number on it — 60 seconds, free. See how you rank, then get a history moment like this in your brief every day.

Take the Free Assessment
the USS Constitution is launchedthe Beirut barracks bombing