Abstract

This paper focuses on chairman Mao Zedong’s thinking and policymaking toward the USA after the founding of the new China, and describes his historical contributions to Sino-US relations in the following three phases: (1) The first phase (1949-1960’s). China and the USA were locked in confrontation. Mao Zedong staged a firm but restrained struggle against the U.S. containment and isolation policy toward China; (2) The second phase (1960's-1972). In accordance with the changes in international situation, Mao Zedong made a big strategic decision to invite President Nixon to visit China, thus starting the process of normalization of Sino-US diplomatic relations. (3) The third phase (1972-1976). The normalization continued with momentum. Mao Zedong renewed great efforts to promote the formal establishment of China-U.S. diplomatic relations. All the ideas, principles and policies Mao Zedong put forward in these three phases are component part of Mao Zedong Thought.

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