John F. Kennedy

The 35th President of the United States (1961-63), JFK faces two Cuban crises during his short time in office. The first is the disastrous Bay of Pigs invasion and the second is the subject of this book by JFK's younger brother and closest confidant, making Thirteen Days a "profile in courage" of the late president. Profile in Courage is the title of JFK's Pulitzer Prize-winning book. During the crisis, JFK intensifies his habit of seeking advice from people whose wisdom he respects but whose job descriptions might not seem relevant including people who ask difficult questions, make him defend his position, present different points of view, and are skeptical.

JFK returns to midterm election campaign trail to deflect suspicion of crisis in Washington, cuts it short when the Ex Comm has prepared options for his consideration, puts the armed forces on alert, and decides on blockade...