|
The CAST 11 Podcast Network is sponsored by the Prescott Valley Outdoor Summit. Where adventure comes together.
|
It was 51 years ago today, on April 10, 1971, that American diplomats first stepped foot in the Peoples Republic of China’s capital, Beijing. This was a monumental event, for no Americans had visited the nation since the Communist takeover in 1949. However, these Americans were not carrying rifles, but Ping – Pong implements! The U.S. Table Tennis Team was in Japan for the 31st World Table Tennis Championships, and were invited by Chinese officials to compete against their team.
This was rather controversial, as the Vietnam War was still raging with Chinese material aiding the enemy. Ping – Pong Diplomacy, as it would be called, paved the way for improved relations and Détente with China. It is interesting to note that though relations are strained today, perhaps the past can help us improve the future.
What was happening yesterday, on April 11th?
Leave a Reply