The Cuban Missile Crisis Though the Cuban Missile Crisis began on October 14, 1962, American President John F. Kennedy did not consult with other nations for several days. Diefenbaker was initially skeptical about the supposed evidence and proposed sending envoys from the United Nations to inspect further. Relations between Kennedy and Diefenbaker had been historically tense, owing partially to the infamous "Rostow Memo" incident where an internal American memo had been left behind by Kennedy's team after he had met with Diefenbaker. The memo detailed items that the American's wished to "push" Canada on, and Diefenbaker believed that the Americans were attempting to use their position to dominate Canada. Diefenbaker was reluctant to put Canadian troops on alert, angering the American's. When he eventually did so, the climax of the crisis had passed.
Nuclear Weapons Historic agreements with NATO and NORAD in the 50s required Canada to drastically increase its defense spending. Diefenbaker had difficulty with the issue throughout his tenure. Questions about whether Canada should arm itself with
nuclear warheads purchased from America drew international attention. Canada had long held an anti-nuclear proliferation position, but by the early 60s, external pressure had forced Diefenbaker toward making a difficult decision on the matter. Liberal opposition leader,
Lester B. Pearson, stated his support for fulfilling Canada's commitment to accept nuclear weapons, despite his opposition to nuclear weapons in general. This put increased pressure on Diefenbaker, whose cabinet was split over the matter. On February 3, 1963, members of the cabinet turned on Diefenbaker, in light of his inaction, and three days later his government fell. == Ministry ==