In this podcast, Dr Jim Hoare discusses the impact of the Second World War in increasing tensions between the Chinese communists and nationalists. He also explains the USA’s support for the nationalist Chiang Kai Shek, and therefore why the USA chose to recognise Taiwan over China until the 1970s. Hoare details the thawing of tensions between the USA and China with Nixon’s visit in 1972. He contrasts this with the Sino-Soviet split after 1953. He also describes how the relationship between China, the USA and Russia has evolved since the end of the Cold War.

1. What impact did the Second World War have on China?
2. Why did the US support Chiang Kai Shek?
3. What was US policy towards China and Taiwan from 1949-1970?
4. What was the impact of Nixon’s visit to China in 1972? Why did the US withdraw recognition for Taiwan in 1979?
5. What value did Nixon, Kissinger and Mao place on changing relations with between their two nations?
6. What were relations like between China and the USSR between 1945 and 1990?
7. How did relations between China, the USA and Russia transform after the end of the Cold War?

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