What Were the Main Features of the Agreement Reached after the Cuban Missile Crisis
The Cuban Missile Crisis was a major moment in world history that brought the world to the brink of a nuclear war. The crisis started in October 1962 when the Soviet Union began to deploy missiles with nuclear warheads in Cuba. The United States, led by President John F. Kennedy, responded with a naval blockade of Cuba to prevent further shipment of weapons and to demand the withdrawal of the missiles.
After tense negotiations, the United States and the Soviet Union reached an agreement that ended the crisis and prevented a nuclear war. The following are the main features of the agreement reached after the Cuban Missile Crisis:
1. Removal of missiles: The Soviet Union agreed to remove all missiles from Cuba, and the United States agreed not to invade Cuba. The removal of the missiles was completed within a month of the agreement.
2. Assurance of non-invasion: The United States also agreed to remove missiles from Turkey that were aimed at the Soviet Union. The removal of these missiles was done quietly and without public knowledge. This assurance meant that the Soviet Union no longer had to fear an immediate attack from the United States.
3. Direct communication: The crisis had highlighted the need for direct communication between the leaders of the United States and the Soviet Union. The two countries set up a direct communication hotline between the White House and the Kremlin. This hotline would allow the leaders to communicate directly in case of another crisis.
4. Limited Test Ban Treaty: The crisis also led to the signing of the Limited Test Ban Treaty in 1963. The treaty prohibited nuclear weapons tests in the atmosphere, underwater, and in space. This was a significant step towards limiting the spread of nuclear weapons and reducing the environmental impact of nuclear testing.
In conclusion, the agreement reached after the Cuban Missile Crisis was a significant moment in world history. It prevented a nuclear war and paved the way for improved relations between the United States and the Soviet Union. The agreement had several features, including the removal of missiles, assurance of non-invasion, direct communication, and the signing of the Limited Test Ban Treaty. These features helped to ensure world peace and prevented a nuclear catastrophe.