This Day in History: October 22

(WKYT) - In the lead-up to America turning 250 years old, we are looking back every day at ‘This Day In History.’

On this day in 1962, President John F. Kennedy addressed the Cuban Missile Crisis and shocked the nation.

President Kennedy revealed U.S. spy planes had uncovered Soviet missile bases in Cuba.

These sites housed missiles capable of striking major U.S. cities, including Washington, D.C.

Kennedy announced a naval “quarantine” of Cuba, demanding the removal of the offensive weapons.

For six tense days, the U.S. and Soviet Union stood on the brink of nuclear war.

Ultimately, Soviet missiles were removed from Cuba, and the U.S. pledged not to invade the island.