US-China Relations: Perilous Past, Uncertain Present

by Robert G. Sutter

This comprehensive assessment of historical and contemporary determinants of Sino-American relations has been brought up to date with full treatment of rising tensions over salient differences since the ascendance of China’s dynamic leader Xi Jinping (2012– ). Incoming President Barack Obama (2009–2017) was pressured by China; he responded with his signature rebalance policy of greater US engagement throughout China’s periphery. Reacting negatively, Xi Jinping used coercive means and other initiatives to advance at the expense of the United States. Widespread American disappointment prompted calls for tougher actions, and now President Donald Trump’s absence of a coherent strategy has added to uncertainty looking forward.
Tracing the broad history of the usually conflicted Sino-American engagement, distinguished analyst Robert G. Sutter convincingly shows that strong differences and mutual suspicions persist, only partly overridden by mutual pragmatism that shifts with circumstances. Sutter judiciously considers key domestic and international factors determining the evolution and status of the relationship.
As the only book on the subject that combines a unified assessment of the historical evolution, contemporary status, and likely prospects of US-Chinese relations, this balanced and pragmatic study will be an essential resource for all concerned with the globe's most crucial bilateral partnership.

336 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 8, 2017

Reviews

[NCHS Library]

From Follett: This comprehensive assessment of historical and contemporary determinants of Sino-American relations has been brought up to date with full treatment of rising tensions over salient differences since the ascendance of China's dynamic leader Xi Jinping (2012). Incoming President Barack Obama (2009, 2017) was pressured by China; he responded with his signature rebalance policy of greater US engagement throughout China's periphery. Reacting negatively, Xi Jinping used coercive means and other initiatives to advance at the expense of the United States. Widespread American disappointment prompted calls for tougher actions, and now President Donald Trump's absence of a coherent strategy has added to uncertainty looking forward. Tracing the broad history of the usually conflicted Sino-American engagement, distinguished analyst Robert G. Sutter convincingly shows that strong differences and mutual suspicions persist, only partly overridden by mutual pragmatism that shifts with circumstances. Sutter judiciously considers key domestic and international factors determining the evolution and status of the relationship. As the only book on the subject that combines a unified assessment of the historical evolution, contemporary status, and likely prospects of US-Chinese relations, this balanced and pragmatic study will be an essential resource for all concerned with the globe's most crucial bilateral partnership.