Theodore Sorensen's Memorandum to the President - October 18, 1962.
One of President Kennedy's top advisers was Ted Sorensen. Sorensen served as special counsel to the President and was his main speechwriter, responsible for many of the famous lines that Kennedy is best known for. His opinion was also highly valued by the President. Below, he summarizes a discussion at the White House on October 18th of what the options are regarding Cuba, and who in the meeting believes in each option. Everyone in the room agreed that the missiles needed to be removed from Cuba. The question was how to do it without triggering a nuclear war. The three main options given to Kennedy were to:
As you read below, consider the following: Of the four military options, which one seems least popular? Is there anything that most of the advisers agree on? Most importantly, if you were President, which one do you think you would pick?
- Invade Cuba;
- Bomb the missile sites and military installations on the island;
- Blockade Cuba from all hostile ships.
As you read below, consider the following: Of the four military options, which one seems least popular? Is there anything that most of the advisers agree on? Most importantly, if you were President, which one do you think you would pick?