From Suspicion to Interest, 1949 to 1969
Early Hostility and Isolation
- US Support for Taiwan: The United States backed the Nationalist Republic of China in Taiwan, refusing to recognize the People's Republic of China (PRC).
- Mao's Alignment with the Soviet Union: Mao Zedong initially maintained hostility towards the USA to reassure the Soviet Union of China's commitment to communism.
- Failed Attempts at Diplomacy: Despite Mao's interest in US technology, efforts to open relations were rebuffed, such as in 1954 when US Secretary of State John Foster Dulles refused to shake hands with Zhou Enlai at the Geneva Accords.
The Sino-Soviet Split in 1961 left China with few allies, further isolating the country.
Rising Tensions with the Soviet Union
- Border Clashes: Between 1964 and 1969, over 4,000 incidents occurred along the 7,000-kilometer border, culminating in the Sino-Soviet border clashes of 1969.
- The Brezhnev Doctrine: This policy alarmed China, as it justified Soviet intervention in other countries, raising fears of a potential attack on Chinese territory.
The Soviet Union even inquired about the US reaction to a possible attack on Chinese nuclear facilities.
Sino-Soviet Border Clashes of 1969
- Zhenbao Island Incident: On March 2, 1969, Chinese troops ambushed Soviet forces on Zhenbao (Damansky) Island, leading to intense fighting.
- Soviet Response: The Soviets sent reinforcements, including tanks, and later attacked China's border with Kazakhstan, exposing China's military weaknesses.
The Soviet Union questioned the USA about its reaction to a possible attack on Chinese nuclear facilities.
US-Chinese Rapprochement, 1971-1972
Ping-Pong Diplomacy
- Sporting Exchange: In April 1971, an American table tennis team was invited to Beijing, marking a significant public relations success.
- Impact on Public Perception: This event captivated the American public and paved the way for diplomatic progress.
The Pentagon Papers, published in 1971, revealed the true scale of US involvement in Vietnam, increasing pressure on Nixon to achieve a diplomatic success.
Kissinger's Secret Trip
- July 1971: Henry Kissinger secretly traveled to China, meeting with Zhou Enlai.
- Key Offers:
