This book identifies major elements that influenced Sino-US relations before the reform and opening up of said relations. These include the Taiwan question's impact on the policies of both countries, the Korean War, the Cold War, Japan and the Sino-Soviet split.

The book is divided into two complementary sections: the first addresses the evolution of Sino-US relations, while the second examines Indo-US relations, especially after 1991 and the end of the Cold War and the 'social-imperialism' of the USSR. In addition, the book explores the mores of the Chinese leadership; the period of the relationship's consolidation and growth, punctuated by China's turning to 'market socialism', led by Deng; the impact of the end of the Cold War; and its lasting influence. In closing, the book calls for responses to India's play as a hedge to Chinese growth, as originally envisioned by the Clinton, Bush, and Obama Administrations. The roles that Japan, Australia and ASEAN play in this matrix are also explored.