Examine the policy of the United States toward China between 1945 and 1949, and explain the reaction in the United States to the creation of the People's Republic of China.

The policy of the United States toward China between 1945 and 1949 was largely influenced by the Cold War and the desire to contain the spread of communism. The United States supported the Nationalist government of Chiang Kai-shek and provided military and economic aid to help them fight against the Chinese Communist Party led by Mao Zedong. This policy was in line with the broader strategy of containment, which aimed to prevent the spread of communism and Soviet influence.

However, despite the support from the United States, the Nationalist government was unable to effectively combat the communist forces, and in 1949, Mao Zedong declared the establishment of the People's Republic of China. This event was met with shock and concern in the United States, as it represented a significant loss in the struggle against communism in Asia.

The reaction in the United States to the creation of the People's Republic of China was one of disappointment and fear. Many policymakers and the public saw it as a major setback in the fight against communism and a sign of the growing influence of the Soviet Union in Asia. The fall of China to communism also led to a reevaluation of U.S. foreign policy and a shift towards a more aggressive stance in the Cold War.

Overall, the creation of the People's Republic of China had a significant impact on U.S. policy and attitudes towards Asia and the Cold War, leading to a more confrontational approach towards communist regimes in the region.