The Rest Is Politics: US Introducing... Legacy
Oct 22, 2024
Afua Hirsch, a broadcaster and co-host of the podcast Legacy, teams up with historian Peter Frankopan to explore the complexities of historical legacies. They dive into the captivating life of John F. Kennedy, especially during the Cuban Missile Crisis. The discussion highlights the tense deliberations within the U.S. administration and the weight of military pressure on Kennedy. Were his decisions heroic or flawed? As they dissect these pivotal moments, it raises questions about Kennedy's lasting influence in today's political landscape.
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The Cuban Missile Crisis
- During the Cuban Missile Crisis, Kennedy faced a tense standoff with Khrushchev over Soviet missiles in Cuba.
- The US reached DEFCON 2, signifying anticipation of an enemy attack.
Primary Sources
- Reading primary sources offers exciting insights into historical events.
- The tension and high stakes of the Cuban Missile Crisis are palpable in firsthand accounts.
Bobby Kennedy's Account
- Bobby Kennedy described his brother's intense stress during the crisis.
- He felt they were on the edge of a precipice with no way off.