The Politics of Food Aid: John F. Kennedy and Famine in China
Author(s)
Grasso, June
Abstract
The horrific famine China experienced during the early 1960s not only highlighted the failures of Communist Parry policies, but also sparked a debate within the administration of John F. Kennedy over possible US reactions. Several of Kennedy’s closest advisors argued for sending American surplus food, while others were adamant that no change should be made in US policy. The final decision to ignore pleas for assistance from the United Nations and other sources was influenced by many issues, including China’s relationship to the UN, its aggression toward India and offshore islands, and its role in Southeast Asia.
