Taipei, Taiwan, June 19, 1960: A smiling President Dwight D. Eisenhower walks with Taiwan President Chiang Kai-shek and his wife. The president received a warm and enthusiastic welcome as he landed in the free Republic of China the day before, with a massive crowd of some 500,000 lining the streets of the presidential route, “forgetting their traditional reserve and decorum and bursting into jubilant fires of welcome,” according to news reports at the time. Welcomed by Taiwan President Chiang Kai-shek, Eisenhower reiterated U.S. support of Taiwan in a brief statement upon arrival. “The ideals that we share; our common commitment to self government in our respect countries; our aspiration for a world of freedom, just peace and friendship under the rule of law; all of these demand of us — and all the Free World — increased vigilance and closer cooperation in the face of the threats posed by communist imperialism.” Standing beside Chiang Kai-shek the president continued, “I bring you the personal assurance of America’s steadfast solidarity with you and your government in the defense of these ideals and in the pursuit of our common aspirations.” The president was on a whirlwind tour of Asia, making stops in Japan, Okinawa, Philippines, Taiwan and South Korea.

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