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How important was the arms race as a reason for the Cuban Missile Crisis of 1962? - Scottish Highers History - Question 54 - 2023
Question 54
How important was the arms race as a reason for the Cuban Missile Crisis of 1962?
Worked Solution & Example Answer:How important was the arms race as a reason for the Cuban Missile Crisis of 1962? - Scottish Highers History - Question 54 - 2023
Step 1
Assessing the Importance of the Arms Race
Answer
The arms race between the United States and the Soviet Union significantly contributed to the tensions that led to the Cuban Missile Crisis. By the early 1960s, both superpowers had stockpiled a vast arsenal of nuclear weapons, which created an atmosphere of suspicion and fear. Both nations were eager to display their military capabilities, which prompted the USSR to position nuclear missiles in Cuba as a direct response to the U.S. missiles in Turkey.
Moreover, the strategic competition between the two nations escalated the stakes of the Cold War. The U.S. viewed the arms race not merely as a military build-up but as existential in nature. This made the quick escalation of the situation in Cuba much more alarming, as both nations were aware that any miscalculation could lead to nuclear war.
Step 2
Analysis of Events Leading to the Crisis
Answer
In October 1962, the discovery of Soviet missiles in Cuba sparked a 13-day standoff. The arms race had fostered a climate where both nations were prepared for military confrontation. The United States' initial response involved a naval blockade and the threat of military action, underscoring how the accumulation of weapons influenced decision-making.
Furthermore, the psychological impact of the arms race meant that leaders were often acting under the assumption that any sign of weakness could lead to catastrophic consequences. This heightened the seriousness of the crisis and emphasized the role the arms race played in escalating tensions to a breaking point.
Step 3
Conclusion
Answer
In conclusion, while the Cuban Missile Crisis involved numerous factors, the arms race was a fundamental reason behind the confrontation. It not only escalated the tensions but also shaped the conditions under which both superpowers were operating. Without the context of the arms race, the likelihood of the crisis occurring in the same manner diminishes significantly.