Assessing the Impact of Improved US-China Relations on China's Superpower Status at Mao's Death

Improved relations with the USA played a significant role in establishing China as a superpower by the time of Mao's death, but it was not the sole factor. The period of improving relations between the USA and China during the 1970s was indeed crucial in elevating China's status on the world stage.

The initiative to improve relations between the USA and China was driven by strategic considerations on both sides. The USA saw an opportunity to capitalize on the Sino-Soviet split and use China as a counterbalance to the Soviet Union. This move helped to sideline the USSR and weaken its influence globally. Additionally, China's own relations with the USSR had deteriorated in the 1960s, further pushing them towards the USA.

Key events such as Henry Kissinger's visit to China in 1971 to negotiate trade deals, the famous ping-pong diplomacy, and the signing of the 1972 Sino-American trade agreement and peace treaty were pivotal in establishing closer ties between the two countries. The USA recognizing the People's Republic of China (PRC) as the legitimate government of China and supporting its admittance into the United Nations further legitimized China's position internationally.

The improved relations with the USA brought significant benefits to China. The opening up of trade channels with the USA allowed China to increase its foreign trade and boost exports, which provided crucial revenue for technological enhancements in various industries. Furthermore, China gained access to US business expertise and technology, which helped drive its economic growth and modernization efforts.

However, it is important to note that other factors also contributed to China's rise as a superpower. The significant assistance received from the Soviet Union in the 1950s, including loans, experts, and technology, played a crucial role in aiding China's industrialization efforts. China's development of nuclear capabilities in 1967, its status as the world's largest military power, and its dominance over allies and client states, such as Tibet, all bolstered its superpower status.

Moreover, China's successful alliance with North Korea, its victory over India in border conflicts, and domestic policies like the Agrarian Reform Law and the development of collective farming also played a vital role in strengthening China's position as a superpower.

In conclusion, while improved relations with the USA were significant in establishing China as a superpower by the time of Mao's death, it was not the only contributing factor. The combination of improved relations with the USA, support from the Soviet Union, strategic alliances, military strength, and domestic policies all played a part in elevating China to superpower status.