Conflict
In 1949, an iron wall of conflict across the Pacific developed when communists took over mainland China, heightening the Cold War. †
Compromise
Nixon's 1972 visit to China was a major implosion in demolishing this wall of hostility, constructing a new Sino-American relationship.
The Legendary Visit
President Richard M. Nixon once told Times reporters "If there is anything I want to do before I die, it is to go to China." On February 21, 1972, the president began his week-long tour of the PRC that would transform Sino-American relations.