In a democracy, government should be run on the basis of citizens, not leaders; the personal opinions of members of government should not change the way a country is run. However, often, a government official's opinions hinder how they run their country. Prime Minister, John Diefenbaker, let his personal feelings prevent him from making good decisions for Canada, especially during the Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962. Diefenbaker neglected to assist the United States during the Cuban Missile Crisis because of his frustration with the government's lack of consultation. The United States, his contempt for President Kennedy and his strong sense of nationalism. Prime Minister Diefenbaker was very distressed that the United States had chosen not to consult Canada on its plans for the Cuban Missile Crisis. He was frustrated that it showed a lack of respect, didn't give Canada enough time to prepare, and wasn't sure if the United States was simply overreacting. This showed great disrespect towards Canada, as Canada was the United States' greatest ally. Through Canada's commitment to NORAD and NATO, Canada was to be consulted based on documents signed under the NORAD agreement. The consultation was necessary as Canada was the only country in the Western Hemisphere to share a close military alliance with the Americans. While the situation was being monitored in Cuba, the President had time to consult with Canada, but decided not to do so, as he saw Diefenbaker's government as a "trivial slide show". This crisis had serious implications for all of North America; Canadians found themselves on the brink of nuclear war without their consent and unable to influence the course of events. Canada has not had the opportunity to offer its vision...... middle of paper ......and Crisis." 2009. http://scholars.wlu.ca/cgi/viewcontent.cgi? article=1933&context= etd (accessed January 14, 2014). The Chronicle Herald. “Kennedy-Diefenbaker relationship 'a toxic swamp'.” thestar.com “JFK's war with Diefenbaker | Toronto Star." 2014. http://www.thestar.com/news/world/2013/11/18/jfks_war_with_diefenbaker.html (accessed January 14, 2014). Usask.ca. "Diefenbaker Canada Center - Printed transcript of the debate parliamentarian." 2014. http://www.usask.ca/diefenbaker/galleries/virtual_exhibit/cuban_missile_crisis/pm_statement_following_president.php (accessed 13 January 2014). Wylie, Lana. Perceptions of Cuba: Canadian and American Policies in Comparative Perspective. Toronto: University of Toronto Press, 2010, 59-61 (accessed December 18, 2013).