Who remembers Air Force One landing in China this week in 1972? It was quite a TV image for those who remember that day.
We celebrate another anniversary of President Nixon’s trip to China.
It is still one of the most incredible presidential trips in US history. Can you think of another one more unexpected or revolutionary?
President Nixon built his career as an anti-communist in the days of The Cold War. He was the last person in the world that anyone would have expected to go to China and shake Mao’s hand.
His visit also created the phrase “Nixon to China” moment. It became a popular slogan to describe a presidential move that goes against conventional wisdom.
President Nixon’s motives were to improve relations with China and divide the two communist superpowers. He also understood the potential of China, diplomatically and economically.
Today, China is an emerging superpower with a billion people and lots of challenges. Time will tell whether China will continue to grow or blow up from within.
Today, the US-China relationship is more complex than ever, from a trade deficit to a cocky Chinese Navy in the Pacific.
Nevertheless, it was an amazing moment this week in 1972.
By the way, President Nixon wrote a lot about the trip to China in his wonderful memoirs published in 1978.Nevertheless, it was an amazing moment this week in 1972.
P.S. You can listen to my show. If you like our posts, please look for ”Donate” on the right column of the blog page.