As Princess Diana walked the floors of the Cross Hall beneath the ballroom chandeliers, she became part of a memorable occasion that would serve as a symbol of diplomacy in the 1980s. As part of her official state visit to the United States, this particular instance drew the eyes of the watching world, providing another perspective on what a state visit can be. Where official public appearances during a state visit usually take place amid rigid reception lines, here was an informal event at the executive mansion.
It has become a well-known landmark from the 1985 tour, illustrating how the public responded to Princess Diana at official functions. The trip of Princess Diana to Washington, along with Prince Charles, became notable, although the reception in the evening received the most attention.
