The lost history of Latin America’s role in averting catastrophe during the Cuban missile crisis

By: Renata Keller, University of Nevada, Reno

Outlets: The Conversation

Published: October 24, 2025

Words: 1,337

Last Updated: 1 month ago

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By Renata Keller, University of Nevada, Reno

Sixty-three years ago, President John F. Kennedy single-handedly brought the world back from the brink of nuclear war by staring down Soviet leader Nikita Khrushchev over the Cuban missile crisis. At least, so goes a standard U.S.-centric interpretation of events.

But despite the narrative of presidential strength and American resolve saving the day, the truth is more complicated – and involved a wider cast of continental characters.

As an …

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