Lecture Notes: Secretary of Defense Robert McNamara and the Cuban Missile Crisis

Introduction

• Speaker: Robert McNamara, Secretary of Defense of the United States
• Context: McNamara's Department uses 10% of the national income and over half of every tax dollar.
• Reputation: Described as both controversial and effective, with differing views on his role and performance.

Kennedy's Gift and the Cuban Missile Crisis

• Silver Calendar: Given by President Kennedy, engraving dates of the Cuban Missile Crisis (October 16-28, 1962).
• Significance: These dates represent a critical period where the US faced potential nuclear war.

The Crisis Overview

• Soviet Actions: The Soviet Union secretly introduced nuclear missiles into Cuba, threatening 90 million Americans.
• US Intelligence: CIA believed warheads had not yet been delivered.
• US Response: Mobilized 180,000 troops and planned a significant air attack.

Decision-Making Challenges

• Strategic Considerations: Development of a specific strike plan and consideration of potential consequences.
• Kennedy's Dilemma: Avoiding war was a priority; internal disagreements with military leaders like General Curtis LeMay.

Khrushchev’s Messages

• Two Messages:
  • Soft Message (First): Indicated willingness to remove missiles if the US guaranteed not to invade Cuba.
  • Hard Message (Second): Threatened confrontation with military power if the US attacked.

Diplomatic Resolution

• Tommy Thompson's Influence: Advised President Kennedy to respond to the soft message.
  • Insights: Thompson understood Khrushchev’s mindset and the potential for peaceful resolution.
  • Outcome: Emphasized the importance of empathy in diplomacy, anticipating Khrushchev’s acceptance of a deal.

Historical Context and Lessons

• Attempted Assassinations: CIA attempted to assassinate Castro, influencing Cuban and Soviet perceptions.
• Bay of Pigs Influence: Previous US invasion attempts impacted the crisis dynamics.
• Khrushchev’s Perspective: Warned against escalating tension, which could lead to war and mutual destruction.

Conclusion

• Empathy in Diplomacy: Importance of understanding the adversary's perspective to avoid conflict.
• Reflection on War: Khrushchev’s experiences emphasized the destructive nature of war, advocating for wisdom to prevent annihilation.

Key Takeaway: The Cuban Missile Crisis was a pivotal moment in history where diplomacy, empathy, and strategic restraint played crucial roles in averting nuclear war.