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The history of the Cuban Missile Crisis - Matthew A. Jordan

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Imagine going about your life knowing that, at any given moment, you and everyone you know could be wiped out without warning at the push of a button. This was the reality for millions of people during the forty-five year period after World War II now known as the Cold War. Matthew A. Jordan explains the history behind the peak of all this panic — the thirteen days of the Cuban Missile Crisis.

Some historians disagree about Khrushchev’s intentions when placing the missiles in Cuba. Do you believe that the missiles were placed there for defensive or offensive purposes?

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TED-Ed Animations feature the words and ideas of educators brought to life by professional animators. Are you an educator or animator interested in creating a TED-Ed Animation? Nominate yourself here »

Meet The Creators

  • Educator Matthew A. Jordan
  • Script Editor Alex Gendler
  • Director Patrick Smith
  • Animator Patrick Smith
  • Narrator Addison Anderson

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