The Widening of the Cold War, 1949-1955: US Containment in Action in Asia - Support for Jiang Jieshi and Policy Towards China and Taiwan

Question 1

When did the Chinese Civil War end?

Answer 1

• On 1 October 1949, PRC was proclaimed in Beijing

Question 2

Did the East and West recognise the PRC?

Answer 2

• The new PRC was recognised by Britain in January 1950, as it was popular among the people
• US ensured the Nationalists retained the Chinese seat on the UN Security Council until 1971
• US recognised the PRC in 1979

Question 3

When was the Sino-Soviet Pact made?

Answer 3

• 14 February 1950

Question 4

What agreements were made under the Sino-Soviet Pact?

Answer 4

Both states

• Co-operated in terms of defence in case of attack by Japan or its ally (US)
• Conclude a peace treaty with Japan which would not be hostile to the interests of either state
• Don’t create agreements that threaten other member of pact
• Consult closely on matters of mutual interest

Question 5

What additional benefits did the Sino-Soviet Pact provide?

Answer 5

• PRC supplied valuable raw materials to USSR for ten years at low prices
• Stalin provided military support for PRC e.g establishment of air-defence installations in coastal areas near Taiwan

Question 6

When was the China White Paper made?

Answer 6

• 30 July 1949

- Prior to end of Chinese Civil War

Question 7

What was the China White Paper?

Answer 7

• Defined by Dean G. Acheson
• Explained US withdrawing direct military support for Jiang Jieshi
• Claims result of civil war was ‘beyond control of US gov.’ and due to ‘internal Chinese forces’

Question 8

Why was the China White Paper made?

Answer 8

• Made so US doesn’t appear imperialist, like Mao’s claims
• Acheson didn’t want to strengthen Sino-Soviet alliance
• US would give KMT financial aid, instead of military aid
• KMT would be able to buy weapons from US still

Question 9

When did the KMT flee to Taiwan?

Answer 9

Dec 1949