The Nuclear Football

Considered the world's most dangerous handbag, its contents enable the U.S. President to authorize a nuclear launch anytime, anywhere. Carried by a military aide, the President's Emergency Satchel, commonly called the Nuclear Football, is always within reach, whenever the President leaves the White House, whether for a jog or on a state visit abroad. From creation during the Cold War years of the Kennedy Administration to today, we detail the Football's history, protocol, safeguards, and rare mishaps.

• documentary