JFK's Forgotten Crisis; Tibet, The CIA, and the Sino-Indian War (Book Review)

The Indo-China War of 1962 is perhaps one of the most devastating armed conflict India has experienced since getting independence. Bruce Riedel's book "JFK's Forgotten Crisis; Tibet, The CIA, and the Sino-Indian War" gives insight on the superpower's participation in the conflict. It emphasises American operations in the Indian subcontinent during one of India's most violent post-World War II periods, which has evaded or is seldom acknowledged in popular discourse.

JFK's Forgotten Crisis; Tibet, The CIA, and the Sino-Indian War

The Indo-China War of 1962 displayed the Indian leadership's empty claims of friendship between the two nations. It was a disaster for India, both militarily and diplomatically. There are other books available to assist readers grasp the tragic time of the past, including firsthand accounts; but, the book by Bruce Reidel is unique. The author revealed us the tale behind the diplomatic curtain, notably the United States' efforts to assist India throughout the crisis.

The author, Bruce Riedel, has 30 years of experience with America's primary spying organisation, the CIA, and has provided insights into how the government functioned. The period was characterised by two big events: the Cuban Missile Crisis and the Indo-Sino War, both of which were led by communist giants and had far-reaching implications for people all across the world.

A seasoned professional, Bruce has advised four U.S. presidents on South Asia and the Middle East. The credentials speak for themselves in terms of the source's reputation and the research done for this book. 

It all started with small skirmishes at the border

The book is written in a narrative format and is easy to read. Riedel gives readers a fresh viewpoint on the 1962 Sino-Indian confrontation, which hasn't gotten the attention it merits, by explaining the circumstances leading up to war.

About the Book

There is an introduction and a prologue to start with followed by book's five main chapters. The Indo-US relationship under Presidents John F. Kennedy and Dwight D. Eisenhower is discussed in the first three chapters - the frosty and thawing of icy ties between the dignitaries during and after this period.

It discusses how India gradually shifted its stance from leading the Non-Aligned movement to siding with the United States following the war and then developing a close connection with the Soviet Union, even though USSR had betrayed India during the conflict.

Nehru with Galbraith and Kennedy

The book discusses the Cuban Missile Crisis, CIA covert activities, and Pakistan's engagement with supporting U2 planes from its territory. It gives insight on India's role in the Tibet catastrophe, as well as Mao's doubts about Indian leadership.

In the next two chapters, the author devotes significant length and effort to one prominent actor of the time, John Kenneth Galbraith. An academic and the American ambassador to India appointed by President Kennedy, as well as his position as Kennedy's appendage in the Sino-India crisis of 1962. The book portrays him as a crucial American player and decision-maker who favourably shaped Indian attitudes and anxieties about the United States. 

The author also reasoned with facts on the several circumstances that played a critical part in lifting the burden of war from India and placing it firmly on China. It also elaborates on the mischief perpetrated by Pakistan's establishment against India, beginning with Ayub Khan and Bhutoo and continuing to policymakers of later years. 

The book additionally highlights the significance of US First Lady Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy in reviving Indo-US and US-Pakistan relations. The writer establishes Kennedy's status as a key Indian ally. Kennedy supported Indian democracy despite India's efforts to remain neutral during the Cold War. With evidence, the author proves Kennedy's compassion for India, which came to the country's rescue during its time of need, and argues that he may have continued to do so if he hadn't been assassinated shortly after the battle ended. 

My Verdict

I had heard about the book from our beloved Prime Minister Modi ji and was eager to read it. The book is largely about glorifying President Kennedy and Galbraith, the United States Ambassador to India. To my amazement, the book helped reshape my perspective about the United States, India, and Nehru ji, the then-Prime Minister of India. The author's success in shaping the story line positively for the two democracies in the past and the issues that may arise in the future is impressive. In my opinion, the book is a must-read for everyone interested in learning about the behind-the-scenes drama of the Indo-Sino battle.

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