International trips made by the heads of state and heads of government to the United States have been a valuable part of American diplomacy and international relations since the mid-19th century. These trips are complex endeavors that often require extensive planning, coordination, and communication.
The first international visit to the United States was made by King Kalakaua of Hawaii in 1874, which was the first visit by a foreign chief of state or head of government.
The first South American head of state to visit the United States was Emperor Pedro II of Brazil in 1876.
The first Central American head of state to visit the United States was President Justo Rufino Barrios of Guatemala in 1882.
The first European head of state to visit the United States was Albert I, Prince of Monaco in 1913 while the first head of government to visit the United States was Prime Minister Macdonald of the United Kingdom in 1929.
The first Oceanian head of government to visit the United States was Prime Minister Billy Hughes of Australia in 1918.
The first Asian head of state to visit the United States was King Prajadhipok of Siam in 1931.
The first African head of state to visit the United States was President Edwin Barclay of Liberia in 1943.