To name a cause for the Cuban Missile Crisis, one key reason was the Soviet Union's desire to place weapons in Cuba to ensure that Cuba would be under its protection. This action by the Soviet Union heightened tensions with the United States as it perceived the placement of missiles in Cuba as a direct threat to its national security.
1. The Soviet Union aimed to establish a military presence in Cuba to counterbalance the United States' military superiority in the region.
2. By deploying nuclear missiles in Cuba, the Soviet Union sought to deter any potential U.S. invasion of the island nation, which had been a concern for both Cuba and the Soviet Union.
3. The Cuban Missile Crisis was also fueled by the U.S.'s discovery of the missile sites in Cuba, leading to a standoff between the two superpowers and bringing the world to the brink of nuclear war.
These factors combined to create a tense and dangerous situation during the Cuban Missile Crisis, showcasing the high stakes and strategic interests involved in this critical event of the Cold War.