Nixon vs. Khrushchev - The Kitchen Debate (1959)

Summary

At the American exhibition, Nikita Khrushchev argued that the displays were unfinished and that the United States’ apparent lead reflected its longer history. The Soviet Union, he said, was only 42 years old but would soon reach America’s level and then move ahead. He described the rivalry as a competition between social systems, while saying each country could choose its own way of life.

Richard Nixon noted the interest shown by workers and farmers visiting the exhibition. He said competition could benefit both countries and people elsewhere if ideas were freely exchanged. He acknowledged areas where the Soviet Union might be ahead, such as rocket development, and areas where the United States might lead, such as color television.

The exchange grew into a sharp argument over each side’s understanding of the other’s system. Khrushchev said Americans feared communism and complained that the debate was unequal: Nixon’s English was being recorded for U.S. audiences, while Khrushchev’s remarks were translated only for Nixon. He asked for a commitment that his speech would also be recorded in English; Nixon replied that the proceedings would be recorded in Russian.

Presenters and Contributors

• Richard Nixon
• Nikita Khrushchev