Khrushchev, Castro,and Kennedy : motivation, intention, and the creation of a crisis
Graduation Date
2006
Document Type
Thesis
Program
Other
Program
Thesis (M.A.)--Humboldt State University, American History, 2006
Committee Chair Name
Delores Nason McBroome
Committee Chair Affiliation
HSU Faculty or Staff
Keywords
Kennedy, Khrushchev, Humboldt State University -- Theses -- Teaching American History, Humboldt State University -- Theses -- Social Science, Cuban Missile Crisis, Castro
Abstract
The Cuban Missile Crisis is thought by many to have been the most dangerous moment in the Cold War and perhaps, in human history. Historians' 'understanding' of this event has undergone dramatic evolution. Continued study of this event remains valid as long as international conflict remains a reality; historians, political scientists, and policymakers investigate this event in an attempt to understand and alleviate future foreign policy and conflict. Recently declassified documents and recordings and the end of the Cold War between the Soviet Union and the United States have made more information available regarding the nature of the crisis, its creation, and resolution. It is evident, however, that a greater volume of information pertaining to the crisis has not led to consensus, or a greater understanding of the causes and consequences of the event. Most historians do agree that Nikita Khrushchev, Fidel Castro, and John Kennedy each played a pivotal role in the crisis and its resolution. This project draws on a variety of sources regarding the crisis and its administrators in an attempt to create an historiography of the available information regarding this important event. It begins with a discussion about the available information on the Cuban Missile Crisis and a history of the pre-crisis Cuban-American relationship. I have investigated this crisis from the perspective that the character, actions and policies of Khrushchev, Castro, and Kennedy were inexorable in instigating and resolving the crisis. I hope that this project will provide educators and students of history with a greater understanding of the opposing views regarding the motivations and actions that resulted in the Cuban Missile Crisis and its outcome
Recommended Citation
Pickering, Robin R., "Khrushchev, Castro,and Kennedy : motivation, intention, and the creation of a crisis" (2006). Cal Poly Humboldt theses and projects. 1760.
https://digitalcommons.humboldt.edu/etd/1760
https://scholarworks.calstate.edu/concern/theses/mg74qp52c