"In point of fact all Americans are automatically turned down by China these days because of the escalation of Johnson's war in Vietnam, which several times has intruded into China"
- Anna Louise Strong
About this Quote
Anna Louise Strong's quote shows the geopolitical stress of the 1960s, particularly in between China and the United States, set against the backdrop of the Vietnam War. Her statement, "In point of reality all Americans are instantly denied by China nowadays," indicates a duration of considerable stress and diplomatic isolation between the 2 countries. This seclusion was likely due to China's perception of the United States as an aggressor in the area, mainly due to its involvement in Vietnam.
The Vietnam War, typically described as "Johnson's war" following President Lyndon B. Johnson's escalation of U.S. military participation, was a highly questionable conflict. It not only polarized opinion within the United States however likewise had far-flung diplomatic effects. For China, a surrounding communist country understanding to North Vietnam, U.S. military actions such as aerial barrages close to or inadvertently breaching their borders were seen as direct threats to their sovereignty and regional stability.
Strong's option of words, "escalation of Johnson's war in Vietnam, which several times has actually intruded into China," highlights the fear and indignation China likely felt over these military attacks. These invasions, possibly unintended, additional stretched relations and promoted suspect. China's choice to "automatically" reject Americans reflects a defensive posture, representing not just a protest against U.S. policy however likewise a protective step targeted at safeguarding their borders and asserting their stance against perceived imperialism.
Moreover, the quote points to a broader narrative of Cold War-era politics where alignments were often drawn more starkly along ideological lines. Diplomatic relations in between communist and capitalist states were fraught, typically complicated by misconceptions and ideological opposition. Strong's observation suggests a criticism of U.S. foreign policy under Johnson, hinting at missed chances for discussion or resolution due to aggressive military methods that overshadowed diplomatic undertakings.
In general, Strong records a minute of heightened stress, marking a complicated chapter in Sino-American relations influenced deeply by the broader Cold War context.
"My sorrow, when she's here with me, thinks these dark days of autumn rain are beautiful as days can be; she loves the bare, the withered tree; she walks the sodden pasture lane"
"Rest is not idleness, and to lie sometimes on the grass under trees on a summer's day, listening to the murmur of the water, or watching the clouds float across the sky, is by no means a waste of time"
