20 Handshakes That Completely Changed History

Some of the most important handshakes happen far from the cameras. In 1987, Israeli Foreign Minister Shimon Peres and Jordan’s King Hussein met secretly in London. They worked out a framework for peace, known as the London Agreement, shaking hands on a deal they hoped would lead to an international conference. Though the plan ultimately fell through, their secret handshake was a vital piece of back-channel diplomacy. It laid the groundwork for future talks and proved that even old enemies could find common ground in a quiet room.