CIA Archives: Peking Parade (1965)

The Peking Parade of 1965 was a highly orchestrated event held in Beijing, China, to celebrate the 16th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China. It was a massive parade, showcasing the military and industrial might of the country, and it was attended by hundreds of thousands of people, including high-ranking Communist Party officials and foreign dignitaries.

The parade was held on October 1, 1965, and it began with a display of military power. Thousands of troops marched through Tiananmen Square, the heart of Beijing, carrying an array of weapons, tanks, and artillery. The parade also included a display of the country's industrial achievements, with floats depicting China's agricultural, mining, and manufacturing sectors.

The highlight of the parade was the display of the country's nuclear capabilities. A massive missile, believed to be a prototype of China's first intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM), was displayed for the first time. The missile, known as the Dongfeng-2, was a source of great pride for the Chinese government, and its unveiling was seen as a major statement of China's military power.

Another noteworthy feature of the parade was the presence of foreign dignitaries. Leaders from around the world were invited to attend, including leaders from other communist countries, such as Vietnam and North Korea, as well as representatives from non-aligned countries. The presence of these foreign leaders was seen as a sign of China's growing influence on the global stage.