The United States and the Sino-Soviet Split: The Key Role of Nuclear Superiority

Abstract

This article explores the role that the United States played in causing the Sino-Soviet Split. It emphasizes how US nuclear superiority caused strains in Sino-Soviet policies, first by forcing China to seek nuclear weaponry and secondly by forcing the Soviets to pursue more conciliatory policies with the West. In addition, Soviet and Chinese perceptions of the US threat produced divergent responses within the USSR and China further straining Sino-Soviet relations. US policy towards the CCP during the Chinese Civil War and US sponsoring of CENTO and SEATO and activity in South Asia were also important factors contributing to the Sino-Soviet Split.