On October 16, 1962—exactly 62 years ago today—the world came closer than ever to the unthinkable: nuclear war. The Cuban Missile Crisis was a 13-day confrontation. It was between the United States and the Soviet Union over Soviet missiles stationed in Cuba. It was the most dangerous flashpoint of the Cold War. For nearly two weeks, the world stood on the brink as U.S. President John F. Kennedy and Soviet Premier Nikita Khrushchev negotiated a precarious peace. This event remains one of the most pivotal moments in modern history. It teaches us invaluable lessons about diplomacy. We also learn about leadership and the real cost of nuclear brinkmanship.

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