China Boys

Book excerpt: In this political memoir, an American diplomat offers an insightful and personal account of the beginnings of U.S. relations with China. Diplomat Nicholas Platt was an integral part of President Nixon’s historic visit to the People’s Republic of China in 1972, as well as the creation of America’s first diplomatic office there. In China Boys, Platt candidly describes his experiences and observations throughout these historic accomplishments. He also describes some of the first encounters between Americans and Chinese, including Olympic athletes, orchestra maestros, Members of Congress, airplane manufacturers, bankers, scientists, and students. Platt sheds light on the forging of the first links between the Pentagon and the People’s Liberation Army following the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan. He also examines the diplomatic role played by nongovernmental organizations like the Asia Society. As Platt demonstrates, these diverse practical ties later evolved into today’s crucial relationship between China and America.