About this episode
In October 1962, the United States confirmed that Soviet missiles were being deployed in Cuba. President John F. Kennedy had to contemplate the consequences of any US response, knowing an escalation of hostilities could end in all-out nuclear war.
What followed was the period of greatest tension during the Cold War. When journalist and historian Sir Max Hastings started writing Abyss, his new book on the confrontation, he thought he was writing about the threat of nuclear war as history. But, as he tells Don in today’s episode, with Putin’s invasion of Ukraine, it has returned to present day.
Produced by Benjie Guy. Mixed by Aidan Lonergan. Senior Producer: Charlotte Long.
If you'd like to learn even more, we have hundreds of history documentaries, ad-free podcasts, and audiobooks at History Hit - subscribe today!
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Get every episode summarized
Each time American History Hit publishes, we email you a written briefing from the transcript — the topics, who appeared, and any specific claims, with the ad reads skipped.
Email me new episodesFree for 3 shows. No card needed.
No transcript yet
This episode has not been transcribed. Request it and it moves to the front of the queue.
More episodes
More from American History Hit
Sherman's March: Invading the South
American History Hit
America's Worst President
American History Hit
The People's Founding Father
American History Hit
The Truth About the Louisiana Purchase
American History Hit