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

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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