What was the primary effect of the Cuban Missile Crisis?

The primary effect of the Cuban Missile Crisis was a marked thaw in U.S.-USSR relations, which stemmed from the intense standoff between the two superpowers in October 1962. The crisis highlighted the catastrophic possibilities of nuclear war, compelling both the United States and the Soviet Union to recognize the importance of communication and diplomacy in managing their rivalry.

One of the most significant outcomes was the establishment of a direct communication link, often referred to as the "hotline," between Washington and Moscow to facilitate quicker and clearer communication in times of crisis. This development was a pivotal moment as it not only reduced the risk of miscommunication during future conflicts but also initiated a period of détente, where tensions gradually eased through various arms control agreements, including the Partial Nuclear Test Ban Treaty in 1963.

The other options, while relevant to the broader context of the Cold War, do not directly relate to the immediate effects of the Cuban Missile Crisis. The notion that it ended the Cold War (as mentioned in the first option) is inaccurate, as the Cold War continued for several more decades. The statement about the establishment of NATO is also misleading, as NATO was founded in 1949, well before the Cuban Missile Crisis occurred. Similarly, while the