Khrushchev s Influence On America - 1543 Words

From 1890-1990, America as a nation experienced constant, dynamic forces from a multiplicity of men and women. When one recalls these people, impactful Americans such as FDR, Henry Ford, Walt Disney, and many others come to mind. However, rarely does one look outside the country for people who created a lasting impact, although certain foreigners molded America during their lives. This particularly applies in the case of Nikita Khrushchev, as despite his status as the leader of another nation, he exerted the greatest influence on America during the time period. Nikita Khrushchev, the First Secretary of the Communist Party of the Soviet Union from 1953-1964 and the Soviet Premier from 1958-1964, rose to power in the chaos after Stalin’s death. During his time as leader, Khrushchev took part in many events that defined the climate of the Cold War. In the Berlin Crisis, where a significant number of people were leaving East Berlin for West Berlin, Khrushchev played a key role by demanding Kennedy attend a meeting to discuss the problem, and subsequently disrespecting the young president. Later on, in the Cuban Missile Crisis, where an American U-2 Spy Plane discovered offensive nuclear missiles in Cuba, Khrushchev further complicated the dire situation through his refusal to remove the weaponry. Beyond direct conflicts, Khrushchev sponsored the growth of the U.S.S.R.’s space program, leading to the launch of Sputnik I, and furthering the tense relationship between the SovietShow MoreRelatedThe Cuban Missile Crisis Essay1292 Words   |  6 Pagesnuclear weapons and nearly ended everything with them as well. America placed Jupiter Missiles with nuclear capabilities in Turkey and Italy, as part of NATO’s cold war deterrent against the soviets. 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