The Cuban Missile Crisis: Timeline & Chronology
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This worksheet helps students understand the sequence of events during the Cuban Missile Crisis through timeline analysis and chronological thinking.
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The Cuban Missile Crisis: Timeline & Chronology
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Introduction to the Cuban Missile Crisis
The Cuban Missile Crisis was a 13-day confrontation in October 1962 between the United States and the Soviet Union over the presence of Soviet ballistic missiles in Cuba. It is considered one of the most dangerous moments of the Cold War, bringing the superpowers close to nuclear conflict. Understanding the timeline of events is crucial to analyzing why the crisis escalated and how it was eventually resolved.
Timeline of Key Events
October 16, 1962: President Kennedy is informed of Soviet missile sites in Cuba.
October 22, 1962: Kennedy addresses the nation; announces quarantine of Cuba.
October 24, 1962: Soviet ships approach the quarantine line; some turn back.
October 27, 1962: A U-2 spy plane is shot down over Cuba; Kennedy considers military options.
October 28, 1962: Soviet leader Khrushchev agrees to remove missiles in exchange for U.S. promises not to invade Cuba.
Use the timeline above to answer the following questions.
Resolution and Aftermath
On October 28, 1962, Khrushchev agreed to remove Soviet missiles from Cuba in exchange for the United States' public assurance not to invade Cuba. Secretly, the U.S. also agreed to withdraw its missiles from Turkey. The crisis marked a turning point in Cold War diplomacy, leading to better communication between the superpowers and the establishment of the Moscow and Washington hotline. It also prompted both nations to pursue arms control agreements.
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Details
- Created
- 1/1/2026
- Updated
- 1/1/2026
- Type
- worksheet