The primary reason for the U.S. blockade of Cuba in 1962 was the discovery of Soviet missiles being installed on the island. This event led to the Cuban Missile Crisis, a significant Cold War confrontation between the U.S. and the Soviet Union. The U.S. perceived the presence of these missiles as a direct threat to its national security, prompting President John F. Kennedy to impose a naval blockade (referred to as a "quarantine") to prevent further delivery of military equipment to Cuba. The situation escalated tensions between the two superpowers but ultimately led to a resolution where the U.S. and Soviet Union made concessions to avoid nuclear conflict.
The other options mentioned do not accurately describe the reasons behind the blockade.
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