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Many people agree that the closest the world has ever come to a nuclear war was in 1962, during the Cuban Missile Crisis. Reconnaissance photographs taken on October 26, 1962, by Americans revealed that Soviet Premier Nikita Khrushchev was building missile bases in Cuba, an island located 90 miles off the coast of Florida. The missiles were intended to counter those placed in Turkey by the United States. President Kennedy swiftly assembled a small group of advisors to consider his options. Essentially, they developed four responses: engage in further negotiations with the USSR, create a blockade of Cuba, invade Cuba, or bomb the missile sites. While the President quickly considered his options, construction of the bases continued, as Premier Khrushchev similarly considered his next move . || || Your task is to pretend you are the President of the United States during the Cuban Missile Crisis. Using the information compiled by your "advisors", you must make a decision about a course of action. You must then notify the country of your decision.
 * [[image:cmc_map_missile_range.jpg width="350" height="460"]] || In this Webquest you will learn about this crucial point in American history. You will discern why and how the leaders of the two superpowers were advised to proceed. What would you have done in the same situation, knowing that your decision would change the fate of the world? Read on and gather as much information as possible before making your decision.

Use the information provided within this space to reach your decision. Prepare a speech where you explain your decision and the specific reasons supporting your decision to the American public. Don't forget to check out the rubric in the evaluation stage.

Good luck! ||
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