HOW DID THE DEPLOYMENT OF SOVIET MISSILES IN CUBA INTENSIFY COLD WAR TENSIONS BETWEEN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA AND THE SOVIET UNION? Study Sources 1A, 1B, 1C and 1D and answer the questions that follow - NSC History - Question 1 - 2017 - Paper 1

Castro sought assistance from the Soviet Union to act as his protector against American aggression and the CIA's attempts to undermine his government.

Khrushchev implied that despite initial hesitations, Fidel Castro ultimately recognized the necessity of the Soviet support, which was essential for Cuba's security against US threats.

Castro likely wanted to 'go public' to demonstrate Cuba's strength and sovereignty, showing that they had the backing of the Soviet Union to deter US aggression.

The aerial photograph shows the deployment of Soviet missiles in Cuba, indicating a military buildup and a direct threat to US security, as well as Cuba's attempt to bolster its defense capabilities.

The source is useful because it provides visual evidence of missile deployment and its contextual significance. However, it may be subjective in presenting threats and could be influenced by propaganda.

Kennedy stated he was acting in the defense of the USA and its allies, especially those in proximity to the potential threat posed by the missiles.

A blockade refers to the action of preventing ships from entering or leaving a specific area. In this context, Kennedy declared a blockade around Cuba to prevent further Soviet shipments of missiles.

1. Kennedy would implement a naval blockade to prevent more missiles from reaching Cuba.
2. He would prepare military responses if necessary to protect national security.