KITCHEN DEBATE CAST AN INTERNATIONAL SPOTLIGHT ON MAJOR COLD WAR THEMES


By bblouin
Vice President Richard Nixon touches the chest of Soviet Premier Nikita Khrushchev during a conversation at the Kitchen Debate. Translators and officials surround the men.

Communication can go a long way when there are disagreements. Two opposing sides coming together to respectfully voice their concerns can lead to a greater understanding by all parties. Such was the nature of the Kitchen Debate in 1959. The Cold War was in full swing. During this time the rivaling concepts of capitalism and communism were trying to secure their footing but also coexist. The Kitchen Debate would be a format in which both nations' leaders could voice their opinions and critique in an organized fashion.

What Was the Kitchen Debate?

The Kitchen Debate was part of a variety of exhibits that fostered a better understanding between America and the Soviet Union (USSR). Featuring U.S. Vice President Richard Nixon and Chairman of the Council of Ministers Nikita Khrushchev, a house was constructed to host the interaction. While the Kitchen Debate in 1959 didn’t fix everyone’s problems, it was a great way to have the two sides meet and grow together rather than apart. In the Kitchen Debate, Richard Nixon argued how capitalism could benefit society. The backdrop of the noted debate at the American National Exhibition in Moscow was that an affordable home stocked full of devices found throughout American markets. The debate broadcast occurred in both nations in color. During the exhibition, Nixon and Khrushchev engaged in a series of meetings, including the famous Cold War Kitchen Debate where they discussed the merits of American consumer products. Khrushchev criticized some gadgets, but Nixon emphasized technological competition rather than military confrontation. They agreed on seeking areas of agreement between the two nations, which built relations on a positive footing. Suggested read: Up-or-Out Navy Method Is Being Replaced to Retain Sailors

Why Was This Debate Important?

Nixon challenged Khrushchev on nuclear threats, leading to a heated argument. Eventually, Khrushchev expressed a desire for peace with all nations, including America. This led Nixon to admit to being a poor host during the exchange. The Kitchen Debate received its title due to the was the continued arguing, yelling, and finger-pointing that occurred in the kitchen of the home. The event was far from perfect. However, the importance remained. Both sides did come together and in a very public manner. Reporters loved the intensity of the debates and the topics explored. Furthermore, the broadcast incorporated symbolism and major Cold War themes directly into homes. From a technological standpoint, it was a perfect display of what each nation did well and not so well. Differing approaches were met, criticized, and agreed upon during the exchange. Related read: The Aftermath of the Soviet-Afghan War is Still Being Felt

Who Won the Kitchen Debate?

Where there are debates there are those seeking winners. The Cold War setting provided a world stage for a ways of living debate. Clearly, there wasn’t a clear winner and the Cold War waged on for many more years. As is often the caveat of political debates, it’s difficult to change anyone’s mind. Who won is more often based on personal opinion rather than genuine fact. Both sides raised opposing arguments and public opinion influenced the public's perception of "victory." Interestingly enough, many decades later, 2022 documents revealed that the Soviet Union potentially exposed Nixon and his family to a threatening level of radiation. Ionizing radiation was the culprit after concerning levels were found at the residence Nixon and his wife was staying at the time. To make matters worse, the declassified documents illuminate a lack of trust during a period of attempted understanding. The present day effects affects are still unclear, which doesn’t help with recent events. The United States unveiling this message at a time in which Russian relations have plummeted to Cold War levels only adds gas to a growing fire. This time, the no Kitchen Debate seems to be on the table as the War in Ukraine continues. Read next: MH-139A Gray Wolf Looks Ready to Finally Join the USAF in 2024


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