Relationship between the United States Soviet Union and

Relationship between the United States, Soviet Union, and China The Cold War IB History 11

1949 -1971: US vs. China/USSR • The victory of the Chinese Communist Party in the Chinese Civil War caused the United States to view China as an extension of the Soviet Union. • The United States refused to recognize China’s Government under Mao Zedong. • A treaty between China and the Soviet Union increased the US’s concern. • Both the Soviet Union and China aided North Korea during the Korean War, and the Chinese Army even entered combat against the US Army.

1971 -1991: US/China vs. USSR • The relationship between the Soviet Union and China began to break down because of the Soviet Union’s involvement in the Vietnam War, a country and conflict which bordered China. • The United States recognizes China’s Government and allows them to join the United Nations. • Under new leader Deng Xiaoping, China changes its economic policy to allow foreign businesses from the USA and other countries to operate in China. • China’s change in economic policy during the 1970’s officially ends any normal relationship between the China and the Soviet Union.

Research Simulation • The United States’ relationship with communist China began for economic reasons, more specifically to allow American businesses to operate in China. • Since this relationship was established many American companies have moved manufacturing operations from the United States to China because it is cheaper to manufacture products in China. • If you were an American working in a manufacturing facility during the 1970’s would you be fearful of the United States’ new economic relationship with communist China?