The year 1979 marked turning points in both contemporary Chinese history and Sino-American relations. Deng Xiaoping initiated market reforms and an opening to the global economy which would transform China, with Guangzhou (Canton) at the forefront. Washington and Beijing's mutual diplomatic recognition triggered an across-the-board expansion of relations between the United States and China.

When Vice President Walter Mondale traveled to Canton for the formal opening of a new consulate there, career diplomat Richard Williams took office as the first U.S. consul general in mainland...

The year 1979 marked turning points in both contemporary Chinese history and Sino-American relations. Deng Xiaoping initiated market reforms and an opening to the global economy which would transform China, with Guangzhou (Canton) at the forefront. Washington and Beijing's mutual diplomatic recognition triggered an across-the-board expansion of relations between the United States and China.

When Vice President Walter Mondale traveled to Canton for the formal opening of a new consulate there, career diplomat Richard Williams took office as the first U.S. consul general in mainland...