Soviet-American relations during the Cold War can be characterized by a series of highs and lows that were perpetuated by a handful of specific events. Nikita Khrushchev’s visit to the United States in September 1959 was one of such events. This trip culminated in the development of mutual understanding, an idea that was both a cultural and a political exchange, which set the stage for better relations between the two nations during that period of the Cold War. Even though historians neglect the impact of Khrushchev’s visit, without these initial steps later breakthroughs might not have been possible
