The Sino-Indian War was a border dispute between China and India in the Himalayas. Indian leaders underestimated Chinese military power, while Chinese troops advanced over Indian forces. The war ended with a Chinese ceasefire declaration. A key factor was differing views between the countries on borders, sovereignty, and interpretations of communism within the international system.
5. Individual Level Analysis
Indian leaders’ misperception over Chinese military
power.
However, Chinese troops advanced over Indian
forces.
Nehru's hopes for pan-asianism.
7. State Level Analysis
Indian belief in non-alignment as an alternative to
the bipolar system.
Chinese belief that Maoist interpretation of
communist revolution was purer than the Soviet
model.
8. Systemic Level Analysis
The questioning of India’s established border by
China undermines both Indian sovereignty and
security.
9. Systemic Level Analysis
Indian interests over defense of the McMahon Line.
India’s perception of the international system.
10. Systemic Level Analysis
Chinese security was undermined by India.
The anarchy in the international system played a
significant role in the actions of the PRC on the
border issue.