1. Topic: Evaluating Nixon and the Foreign Policy of Detente
Do Now:
“America will bear any burden in the defense of the Free World”. –JFK
“America cannot conceive all the plans, design all the programs…and undertake all the defense of the free nations of the world”. –Nixon
Compare and Contrast the two statements.

2. Nixon and Vietnam “Peace w/ Honor Plan”
Vietnamization policy (The “Nixon Doctrine”)
Bombing Cambodia (Ho Chi Minh Trail) and Laos
Student riots continue: Kent State “Massacre” (1970)
26 Amendment- voting age lowered
The “Pentagon Papers”
Vietnam cease-fire 1973, South Vietnam falls in 1975
War Powers Act
Lasting effects of Vietnam

3. The Era of Detente
Nixon looks to create “friendlier” relations w/ communist nations
Advised by Secretary of State Henry Kissinger
Sino-Russian split (1960s)
Nixon opens up secret negotiations with China
1972: Nixon is the 1st President to visit China
“One China” policy
Nixon meets with Mao, agree on trading and cultural exchanges

4. Nixon and the USSR The USSR was afraid of a US-China alliance
USSR begins negotiations with US
Nixon then visits the USSR
Talks with Premier Leonid Brezhnev
SALT agreements (Carter)
Détente lasts until 1979 (USSR invades Afghanistan)

5. Conclusion
How does Nixon’s Détente compare with previous Cold War foreign policy initiatives? (Explain in 2-3 sentences).
Then, turn to a partner and discuss your answers.