#TBT: Deng Xiaoping's Historic 1979 US Visit

Deng Xiaoping speaks at a reception co-sponsored by Asia Society at Washington D.C.'s National Gallery in 1979. (Asia Society)

On January 1st, 1979 the United States normalized relations with China for the first time since the People’s Republic was established 30 years earlier. Deng Xiaoping, who then held the title of vice-premier of China, wasted no time capitalizing on the restored relationship when he made a historic visit to the U.S. soon after. One of his first stops, as seen in this January 30, 1979 photo, was a champagne reception co-sponsored by Asia Society at the National Gallery in Washington D.C., where Deng reportedly denounced "Russian warmongers."

Each week for "Throwback Thursday" (#TBT), we'll reach into our archives to find a photo from the organization's nearly 60-year history. Some photos will feature important moments, some will feature important people, and others still will just be photos we love. Do you have an Asia Society photo you'd like us to consider including in this series? Please email the photo and any related details to [email protected] (we regret that we won't be able to respond directly to each inquiry).