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.
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