Thirty leading China experts, including Perry Link (Princeton Univeristy), Andrew Nathan (Columbia University), Jonathan Mirsky (Times of London), W. J. F. Jenner, Lois Wheeler Snow, and Morton Abramowitz (The Century Foundation), recount their first visit to China, recalling their initial observations and impressions. Most first traveled to China when it was still closed to the world, or was just beginning to open. Their subsequent opinions, writings, and policies have shaped the Western relationship with China for more than a generation. This is essential reading for those who want to understand the evolution of Western attitudes toward modern China. At the same time, the collection provides a vivid, personal window onto a fascinating period in Chinese history.