Soviets' Greatest Gambit

Adam J. Levine analyzes the origins of the Cuban Missile Crisis, with a particular focus on Nikita Khrushchev’s motives and the response of the Kennedy administration.

Alan J. Levine teaches history at Borough of Manhattan Community College. He lives in Bayside, New York.

Part I: The Background Chapter 1: Khrushchev and the Cold War Background Chapter 2: The Kennedy Administration and Its Policies Chapter 3: The Cold War 1961-1962 Part II: The Crisis Chapter 4: The Great Gamble: The Decision, Plans, Buildup Chapter 5: To Look or Not to Look: The Runup to the Crisis, July-October 1962 Chapter 6: The First Seven Days: The Secret Crisis Chapter 7: The Second Week: The Public Crisis Chapter 8: Aftermath and Conclusions