Chapter
The Cold War, The Presidency, And Nuclear Power: History Matters
3:57:43 - 4:05:01 (07:17)
The 1960 US Presidential Election was won by John F. Kennedy, who had less experience, was younger, and was perceived to be less competent than his opponent Richard Nixon. This raised concerns, particularly in the Soviet Union, about Kennedy handling nuclear power and leading to one of the most dangerous crises in history.
Clips
The election of a young, inexperienced John F. Kennedy as President of the United States in 1960 caused concern that he was not equipped to handle the nuclear arsenal.
3:57:43 - 4:05:01 (07:17)
Kennedy presidency
Summary
The election of a young, inexperienced John F. Kennedy as President of the United States in 1960 caused concern that he was not equipped to handle the nuclear arsenal. Soviet Premier Khrushchev was initially optimistic about Kennedy's presidency, but tensions quickly rose over issues like the Berlin crisis, leading to the risk of a catastrophic mistake or miscalculation.