Political Scientist and Journalist ET Ross Terrill Passes Away at 82
- Ross Terrill, an esteemed expert on China, has died at the age of 85.
- He was one of the first Westerners granted access to China in the 1960s.
- His contributions significantly helped the global understanding of Chinese society and politics.
ET Ross Terrill, a prominent political scientist and journalist known for his deep insights into China, passed away on August 2 at his home in Boston. He was 82 years old. Terrill's extensive travels in China began in the 1960s, making him one of the first Westerners to gain access to the country during a time of significant transformation. Although he had been ill in recent years, the exact cause of his death remains unclear. Born in Australia, Terrill first visited China in 1964, just before the nation entered a period of isolation during the Cultural Revolution. His early experiences in China laid the groundwork for a career that would bridge journalism and academia. He became a vital source of information about China for Western audiences, particularly during a time when understanding the country was crucial for international relations. His reporting, notably a two-part article for The Atlantic Monthly, garnered attention from influential figures, including President Richard M. Nixon. The insights he provided were instrumental in shaping Nixon's approach to his historic visit to China in 1972, marking a pivotal moment in U.S.-China relations. Terrill's work has left a lasting impact on how the West perceives China, as he navigated the complexities of its political landscape and cultural nuances. His contributions to journalism and political science will be remembered as significant in the context of China's emergence as a global superpower.