Robert McNamara was one of John F. Kennedy's closest advisors, often helping Kennedy decide the most crucial situations. McNamara began serving as the Secretary of Defense in 1961, after being appointed by Kennedy. McNamara played a large part in the handling of the Cuban Missile Crisis. His choice to advocate for the use of a naval blockade as opposed to an air strike against Cuba likely saved the world from a nuclear war. McNamara's influence continued until 1968, when he resigned as a result of difficulties stemming from the Vietnam War.
For more information on the life of Robert McNamara, click here.
For more information on the life of Robert McNamara, click here.
An excerpt from the documentary The Fog of War of which McNamara recalls his meeting with Castro:
The Fog of War full movie: