Chapter 8: Indochina Flashcards
Why was Indochina important to Eisenhower?
Due to Domino Theory. Southeast Asia was seen as a region that was particularly vulnerable to the spread of communism. The USA’s commitment to Vietnam was part of a wider Southeast Asia strategy based on containing communism by defending Japan, South Korea and Taiwan.
What did Indochina consist of?
Cambodia, Loas and North and South Vietnam. Up until the Geneva Agreement of 1954, they were French Colonies.
Who were the French fighting against for Vietnam?
Communist and Nationalist forces, led by Ho Chi Minh. The USA was committed to supporting the French, and by 1954 was paying for 75% of the War.
What did the USA want to happen in Vietnam?
Was determined not to become committed to an unwinnable conflict, and so sought out a diplomatic solution, which fufilled the USA’s objective of containment, was Eisenhower’s preferred choice.
What was the status of the War by April 1954?
Th French were on the point of military defeat at the hands of the Viet Minh at Dien Bien Phu. It w as at this point that negotiations were convened in Geneva.
What was agreed at the Geneva Conference, July 1954?
Two zones were to be created, with the 18th parallel serving as the dividing ine between the two. French forcs were to move out of the zone. This division was not intended to be permanent and national elections were to take place in two years.
Who was in control of the Southern zone?
President Ngo Dinh Diem, whose regime was supported by the USA.
What was the USA’s position in terms of South Vietnam?
They supported the existence of a pro-American independent non-communist government in Vietnam and they would aid the government to eliminate pro-communist subversion and influence.
