Nuclear Attack on China: The US Plan That Never Was

In the aftermath of World War II, as the world grappled with the rise of communism in China, the United States contemplated a drastic measure: a potential nuclear attack on the newly established People's Republic of China. This startling revelation comes from declassified documents and historical accounts, shedding light on a pivotal moment in the Cold War. The plan, reportedly involving top military officials including General Douglas MacArthur, envisioned a coordinated assault with Taiwanese forces to overthrow the communist regime. The idea of using nuclear weapons was even considered. However, the plan was never executed, largely due to the US military's ongoing recovery from the Second World War and widespread public opposition to another major conflict. "The American public was simply not ready for another war," explains Dr. Eleanor Vance, a historian specializing in Cold War strategy. Instead of direct military intervention, the US adopted a policy of containment, focusing on strategic alliances and economic pressure to curb China's influence. This decision highlights the complex geopolitical dynamics of the post-war era and the limitations of military power in the face of domestic and international pressures. The story serves as a reminder of the far-reaching consequences of military decisions and the importance of considering public opinion in matters of war and peace.