THE NIGHT THE WORLD WAS ABOUT TO END In 1959, I thought the world was about to end. The Russians had placed missile launchers in Cuba aimed at the U. S. and Fidel Castro, the leader of Cuba gave speeches criticizing U.S. foreign policy, capitalism, and the economic embargo. He shouted his position, fiercely criticizing U.S. imperialism, and its interference in Latin American affairs. One night, I listened fearfully to the groan of planes and the warning sirens. I sat at the window of my college room, and decided I would watch and wait for the blinding flash. I knew it would be useless to write note to whatever future there might be when I thought the world was about to end all those years ago