Cold War in Asia Flashcards
1
Q
Yalta Conference
A
Feb 4-11, 1945
USSR given Pacific naval access and South Sakhalin and agrees to attack Japan 3 months after German surrender. USSR supports Jiang Jieshi. Trusteeship between Four powers and Korea suggested. Split Korea at 38th parallel.
2
Q
What year was Pearl Harbor?
A
1941
3
Q
Potsdam Conference
A
17 Jul - 2 Aug, 1945
Confirmed Soviet attack on Japan, Truman denies Korean trusteeship and sorting out border, agreed Southeast Asian occupations. Indochina was PLANNED to be given to China in the north and Britain in the south. Preparing for Japanese surrender.
4
Q
Veto powers
A
All powers need to agree on something in order to take action
5
Q
Early ideas of the United Nations
A
Since 1941, ‘Policemen of the world’ wanted to set up a security council including the USA, UK, USSR, China and France which were given Veto powers.
6
Q
The Marshall Plan
A
Signed by Truman in 1948 to help countries against rising communist parties by a programme of economic aid
7
Q
When was Truman’s presidency and what were his early ideas?
A
1945-1953, he was suspicious of the USSR and believed that he could defeat Japan without the USSR. Wants to invade Japan for Okinawa
8
Q
When did Japan surrender in WW2 and why?
A
Sep 2 1945 due to Soviet invasion of Manchuria and bombs dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki
9
Q
When was the USSR established?
A
1921
10
Q
What is the name of the pan-Asian union that Japan wanted to create?
A
The Greater East Asia Co-Prosperity Sphere
11
Q
Syngman Rhee
A
President of S. Korea 1948-1960
12
Q
Mikhail Gorbachev
A
Last president of USSR 1985-1991
13
Q
Dean Acheson
A
Secretary of State between Truman and JFK’s presidency
14
Q
George Marshall
A
Chief of US Army under Roosevelt, Secretary of State and Defense under Truman
15
Q
Manuel Roxas
A
First president of the Third Philippine Republic from 1946-1948. Unpopular due to involvement with pro-Japanese administration during WW2. Allowed US army to control Filipino military.
16
Q
General MacArthur
A
Supreme Commander of US forces in Japan from 1945. Supported Manuel Roxas in WW2 trials and in presidency
17
Q
Bell Trade Act
A
1946, made US goods more accessible to ship to Philippines. Ultimately was bad for economy as domestic Filipino products failed to complete. Caused inflation.
18
Q
How much did the US invest into the Philippines in the goal of making it a model state and what was it invested into? What was the result of this?
A
$620 million for infrastructure (e.g. hospitals, schools, houses, factories) and military. Made Filipino economy dependent on US economy.
19
Q
Hukbalahap/Huks
A
Filipino anti-Japanese guerilla group formed by farmers from Luzon
20
Q
Satellite states
A
Formally independent but under control of another country
21
Q
Martial law
A
Overthrowing civilian government with military rule
22
Q
George Frost Kennan
A
Worked in US embassy in USSR, wrote ‘Long Telegram’ with 5000+ words in 1946 in response to Washington asking for explanation of Soviet activities, was invited to discuss Marshall Plan
23
Q
What did the Long Telegram state about the USSR and communism?
A
Uses representatives to deepen conflicts in capitalist countries, secretive about militarisation, doesn’t take unnecessary risks, only understands the language of military force, is a ‘malignant parasite’ which feeds on ‘diseased tissue’
24
Q
What did the Long Telegram instruct the US government to do?
A
Educate the public and allies about the USSR and communism to stop the red scare, ensure welfare of allies, build up military to increase risk for the Soviets
25
Nikolai Novikov
Wrote the Novikov Telegram which replaced mentions of USSR and communism in Kennan's Long Telegram with the US and capitalism. Worked in USSR embassy in US. Given information about Long Telegram via Soviet spies.
26
What was the Huk rebellion?
1942-1954, Huks fight Japanese but after Japanese surrender, US demands arms surrender of Huks who refuse and hide their weapons. US/Filipino gov victory.
27
How did the government defeat the Huk rebellion?
US provides $7.2 mil and military aid. Magsaysay reformed army (destroyed corruption and made them flexible to respond to guerilla tactics) and demanded landlords give more harvest to peasants to make them financially stable.
28
Ramon Magsaysay
Secretary of Defense 1953-1957, previously a WW2 guerilla fighter
29
Why did the Huks fail the rebellion?
Used violence towards villagers, rebellion did not spread past Central Luzon, insufficient supplies
30
When did the Philippines gain independence?
1946 July 4
31
What did the US aim to achieve with the Philippines as a model state?
For the country to adopt American values (democracy, capitalism), be a useful ally in SEA, to be economically exploited, to be a capitalist example to other SEA countries
32
What did other Asian countries think of the Philippines as a model state?
They mocked it as a "poor little rich country" as it had many american goods but still suffered from poverty
33
How many Filipino troops were sent to assist the US in the Korean War?
7,500
34
How many Filipino troops were sent to assist the US in the Vietnam War?
10,000 (mainly non-combatant roles)
35
SCAP
Supreme Commander of Allied Powers
36
When was Douglas MacArthur in control of Japan?
1945-51
37
What did the US aim to achieve with Japan as a model state?
To eliminate the country as a threat, punish for WW2, share American values (democracy, capitalism) and to be a useful ally in the Cold War
38
What are the stages of US occupation in Japan?
Revenge (1945-6), Reform (1946-7), Rebuild (1947-52), Re-fang (1948-54), Independence (Sep 1951)
39
How many USD did Japanese exports earn in 1947 compared to 1950
$174 mil in 1947, $827 mil in 1950
40
How much money did the US invest into aid in Japan?
$500 mil
41
How much USD worth of war supplies did the US purchase from Japan?
$500 mil
42
What happened to Emperor Hirohito after WW2?
Removed from politics but not tried for war crimes and kept as a patriotic symbol
43
How did the US get revenge on Japan initially? (Some of these actions were reversed by the end of US control)
Tried war crimes targeting key individuals (most not guilty), dismantled army, destroyed arms, broke up zaibatsu (pre-war industrial, banking companies)
44
How did the US instill American values into Japan and eliminate communism?
Imposed democracy, wrote new constitution, 'Red Purge' banned communist parties, redistributed land from landlords to peasants
45
How many votes did the Japanese Communist party in 1949? What might be the causes?
3 million votes, before 1947 there was inflation and food shortages and the US blocked supplies to Japan via Navy as punishment
46
How did the US rearm Japan?
Created National Police Reserve (light army) which grew to 110,000 by 1954, allowed Japan to have tanks and artillery by 1952
47
When was the CCP founded?
1921
48
Chinese Nationalist party name
Guomingdang (GMD) or Kuomintang (KMT)
49
What is Jiang Jieshi also known as?
Chiang Kai Shek
50
When was the Chinese Civil War?
1927-1949
51
What started the Chinese Civil War?
The KMT decided to make an alliance with western foreign forces in China to strengthen the economy however the CCP refused to accept western influence. This lead to violence between the two parties.
52
What years did Japan annex Manchuria and launch a full-scale invasion of China on?
1931 and 1937
53
When is the People's Republic of China established?
1949
54
Lend Lease Act
1941, allowed US to send arms and money to allies fighting against enemies
55
Who was sent to advise the GMD on military tactics and governing from the US?
George Marshall and Joseph Stilwell
56
When did the US cut funds towards the GMD and why?
1947-8 as they knew the CCP would win the war despite their funds towards the GMD
57
What were Jiang Jieshi's strengths which appealed to the US?
Was anti-communist and fought them effectively 1925-47
58
When was the Long March?
1934-5
59
What were Jiang Jieshi's weaknesses that led to his failure?
Did not listen to US advice as he knew they would fund him anyways, used conscription and underfed army which resulted in low morale and desertion, caused hyperinflation by printing notes - raised taxes in response. Broke dam nearby Yellow River Basin 1938. Used repressive secret police.
60
How much worse was inflation in 1949 China compared to 1937 during the Japanese invasion?
Prices rose to 6000x the levels in 1937. 1 grain = 2500 Chinese dollars
61
What were the CCP's strengths compared to the GMD?
Won more support by emphasising kindness to peasants in army policies, used guerilla warfare and had better military strategy. Utilised unequal wealth distribution in China and Jiang's weaknesses.
62
How many USD in aid did the USSR provide to the CCP in 1949?
$300 mil
63
What was the desertion rate of the army of the GMD?
70%
64
Yellow River flood
1938 KMT implements flood to slow down Japanese forces, kills 400,000-500,000 from drowning, famine and plague.
65
Changsha fire
1938 KMT burns Changsha to prevent Japanese benefitting from its capture, 30,000 deaths
66
HUAC
House Un-American Activities Committee created 1938 to investigate suspected communists
67
McCarthyism
The practice of accusing people of being communists without evidence. Roots from Joe McCarthy who believed there were Soviet spies in the government (after USSR A-bomb test) and made a fake list of communists
68
Effects of McCarthyism
Caused red scare in US where political rights were violated in the name of national security, companies imposed political tests on workers and suspected communists were jailed
69
When was the Defensive Perimeter Strategy adopted?
1949
70
What were the reasons for adopting the Defensive Perimeter Strategy?
To protect trade from Chinese and Soviet navies, stop communism, protect model states, to make up for military weakness, attack China if needed and to save money
71
What was the Defensive Perimeter Strategy?
A defensive line of US military bases
72
Why was it important to protect trade in the Defensive Perimeter Strategy?
It contained many of the raw resources the US used- rubber, tin, petrol and timber and feared it would come into communist control
73
What bases were later added to the Defensive Perimeter Strategy?
Korea, Taiwan, Indochina
74
What was the NSC-68 and when was it?
1950 Briefing of the National Security Council which suggested the tripling of America's defense budget to build up military presence to deter the Soviets
75
What were consequences of the NSC-68?
Prevented a military solution to the Cold War for the USSR and led to full-scale military intervention in Asia.
76
When was the first Soviet A bomb testing?
1949
77
When was the Red Scare in the US?
1950-54
78
What caused the deterioration of Sino-Soviet relations?
Khrushchev believed Stalin was a criminal; Mao, who knew and modeled himself after Stalin, disagreed. Additionally, China wanted an atomic bomb to be seen as a superpower but the USSR didn't want to help.
79
What was the Great Leap Forward?
1958-61 Mao's attempt to break China free of Soviet dependence by industrialisation. Steel and grain production emphasised.
80
What was wrong with the Great Leap Forward?
Crops placed close together = bad harvest, people not allowed to leave their areas, crops left to rot = famine, disapproval led to your death.
81
Nikita Khrushchev
First secretary of the USSR 1953-64
82
How many people were killed in 1958 in disagreement with the Great Leap Forward?
5000
83
Who was the premier of the CCP?
Zhou Enlai
84
Great Cultural Revolution
1966 Wanted to purge traditional, capitalist roots of China. Youth group called the Red Guards beat Mao's political opponents.
85
Ping-pong diplomacy
US ping-pong team visits Japan and receives an invite to China. At the time, China was in isolation and only athletes could travel there.
86
Nixon's visit to China
1972 Mao invites Nixon to visit China. First time American officials went to China in 22 years. Improved Sino-American relations.
87
When did the People's Republic of China become recognised by the US instead of Taiwan?
1979
88
When was Korea divided and how was it divided?
1945 by the 38th parallel as a temporary solution. Became permanent 1948.
89
Why did antagonism between indigenous and Chinese Malays increase in 1945?
Malays did not want to Chinese to have citizenship rights, there were more Chinese than Malays, British began to support Chinese as they were anti-Japanese
90
BMA
British Military Administration set up in Malaya 1945-6 to help establish civilian rule
91
The Malayan Union
Implemented 1946 that non-Malayans would gain citizenship within 5 years of residence and removed sultans. Met with protests and unenthusiastic non-Malayan response. Replaced with the Federation of Malaya
92
The Federation of Malaya
Implemented 1948, restored sultan power and allowed non-Malayan citizenship rights within 15 years of residence
93
What caused the Emergency in Malaya?
Malayan Races Liberation Army murders 3 rubber planters in pursuit of independence
94
When was the Malayan Emergency?
Started 1948, defeated communists 1955, declared over 1960
95
What was the MCP, what did they fight for and how many members did they have?
Malayan Communist Party which was Chinese dominated and wanted independence and workers rights. Had 7000 members at their peak in 1951.
96
What advantages did the British have over the Communist Malays?
They had more power e.g. in 1948 they had 9000 police and 10 battalions, defended villages, gave benefits to non-communist Chinese, had support from Malays due to Federation of Malaya, promised independence
97
What weakness did the MCP have against the British?
Had little forces compared to the British, relied on WW2 weaponry and had divisions over ideology about negotiation with British (if possible)
98
How did the Korean War help the British win the Emergency in Malaya?
It increased demand for rubber and tin which caused an economic boom in Malaya, providing the British more funds
99
When did the Federation of Malaya gain independence?
1957
100
When was Japanese occupation of Korea?
1910-1945
101
When did North Korea invade South Korea and why?
4am 25th June 1950 For independence and because they had Soviet funding.
102
Why was Korea an appealing country to China, the USSR and Japan?
Rich raw materials and surrounded by sea. Waters do not freeze over in the winter: appeal to USSR.
103
How did Kim Il Sung gain support?
He had a reputation for being an anti-Japanese guerilla fighter and trained in the USSR, strengthening bonds with the Soviets
104
Why did Stalin change his mind about supporting the North Korean invasion of South Korea?
1949 Acquired atomic bomb, US withdrew troops from S.K. and CCP victory in China. N.K. superior military. Dean Acheson's disregard of defending South Korea in the Defense Perimeter Strategy speech.
105
How many North Koreans were sent to train in the Chinese Civil War?
17,000
106
Why was the split at the 38th parallel unconventional?
Korea always been unified, North concentrated in industrial trade while South concentrated in agriculture.
107
When did North Korea capture Seoul?
28th June 1950
108
For how long were ROK/US forces pushed back to the Pusan Perimeter?
August - September 1950
109
Inchon Landings
15th September 1950 MacArthur's plan to push back North Korean forces by reclaiming Inchon (far behind the Pusan Perimeter and close to Seoul). Highly risky but successful and allowed them to go on to retake Seoul.
110
When did US forces recapture Seoul from the North Koreans? Why was this important?
27th September 1950. Allowed them to attack North Korean forces from two sides.
111
What were the strengths of the North Korean army?
They had Soviet machinery and were more well-equipped and trained than the South Koreans, they used tactics such as hiding behind enemy lines and they were highly motivated to spread communism and defeat imperialism.
112
What were the weaknesses of the US against N.K.?
Americans were unmotivated, struggled in the environment (extreme weather), poorly trained and equipped (weapons from WW2) and arrogant from WW2 victory.
113
How did the UN help the US in the Korean War?
Approved US defense of S.K., sent troops from 15 different members/countries and many of its members offered help in the form of supplies and food.
114
What are some reasons to disprove the extent of the UN's involvement in the Korean War?
90% of forces fighting were US and S.K., 10% were UN, UN disagreed with US decisions (e.g. pushing into N.K. and ideas of nuclear weapons), and UN armies often did not collaborate well with forces e.g. Turks would often confuse S.K. for Chinese/N.K. and imprison them.
115
Why did China get involved in the Korean War?
Felt threatened by US, to help communist allies, to show China was a superpower and to repay help from North Koreans in the Chinese Civil War
116
How did the US make China feel threatened in 1950?
US put fleets in Taiwan Strait, unintentionally bombed air fields in Manchuria and pushed the North Koreans to the Yalu River and positioned US troops there despite China's instructions not to.
117
When did China get involved in the Korean War?
(19) October 1950
118
Frozen Chosin
November 1950 Battle in the unorganised retreat of US/UN/ROK forces from Chinese forces (the Big Bugout) to the resevoir of Chosin. US forces severely outnumbered, 50% casualty rate and deployed napalm over their own soldiers.
119
How did MacArthur respond to Chinese troops in the Korean War?
Bombed Yalu bridges but Chinese crossed anyways (frozen) and launched big offensive Nov which failed due to insufficient supplies. US advisors quietly disapproved.
120
When was MacArthur dismissed?
Apr 1951
121
What were Truman's reasons for dismissing MacArthur said on US television?
Violated US policies for limiting war in Korea which were to prevent WW3, to not waste the lives of soldiers and to keep security of the free world
122
Reasons for dismissing MacArthur
Him and Truman disagreed and Truman wanted to replace him with Ridgway who was better, Truman feared he would run for president in the upcoming election, dismissive of Chinese warnings and lack of soldiers available to him, issues communique without Truman's permission insulting China, failed offensive in Korea Nov 1950, actively influenced republican politicians against Truman. Disrespected Truman - didn't salute when they met in Guam
123
What were the consequences of Truman dismissing MacArthur?
Truman's approval rating dropped, 69% of Americans disagreed with his dismissal
124
Battle of the Imjin River
Apr 1951 Chinese spring offensive launched to take Seoul; British 29th Brigade prevented capture and stopped communist advance despite being outnumbered. 1000 UN casualties, 15,000 communist losses. Stops communist advance to Seoul and turns war into stalemate
125
Dwight Eisenhower
US President 1953-61
126
What led to the stalemate in the Korean War?
US/UN superior firepower but China had superior numbers, both sides had atomic bomb but decided against using it, trenches and bunkers were starting to be used, 'Iron Triangle' - area of mountains defended by the US which NK could not pass through due to the terrain no advances on either side (back and forth over Iron Triangle territory). NK could not extend any further as they were too far from supply lines and US bombing reduced resources in NK. Problems over prisoners not wanting to return to communism.
127
When did China develop an atom bomb?
1955
128
What was the South Korean army like during the Korean War?
Troops underfed and underpaid, casualty rate 40%+ at times
129
What were the broader consequences of the Korean War?
US involvement in Vietnam, Sino-American hostility, Soviet-American arms race, development of the Non-Aligned Movement, China gains more power but also realises it needs to industrialise (Great Leap Forward), isolation of NK and China
130
Bandung Conference
1955, India objected the Korean War leading to 28 other countries (holding half the worlds population) to oppose the Cold War laying the foundation for the NAM. Called for afro-asian co-operation, decolonisation and peace
131
Non-Aligned Movement
Grew more popular in 70s as Indochina suffered as a result of the Cold War. Helped develop idea of a third world outside US and USSR blocs.
132
SEATO
Set up 1954 to restore US reputation consisting of western countries and 2 SEA countries to prevent communism. Members pledged to offer financial aid. Disbanded in 1977
133
Overall strengths of Viet Minh against the French
Represented Viet independence and anti-French imperialism, program of social reform (wealth and power), guerilla tactics, support from China and USSR, well disciplined towards villagers
134
Weaknesses of French against Viet Minh
Unpopular: exploited resources, forced rulers and elites to co-operate, didn't treat their Vietnamese soldiers well, French at home disagreed with war. WW2 losses, isolated troops at posts (vulnerable to guerilla tactics)
135
When was the Battle of Dien Bien Phu?
1954
136
What was the French plan for Dien Bien Phu?
To build a fort deep in Viet Minh territory near Laos to lure out the Viet Minh and attack them with their superior artillery
137
What were the events at the Battle of Dien Bien Phu?
10,000 Fr vs 50,000 Vm. Viet Minh surround French, French attack supply routes but fail to damage. Viet Minh progressively take all stronghold points and force French commander to order ceasefire.
138
What were the reasons for Viet Minh victory at the Battle of Dien Bien Phu?
Viets used camoflague, terrain, superior numbers and adapted (initial tactic: human wave attacks then trench warfare to reduce casualties when near). French assumed they couldn't withstand their artillery. Terrain: flat field engulfed by forest
139
Geneva Accords
1954 Apr-May, separated Vietnam through demilitarised zone on 17th parallel, restricted foreign military activity in South-east Asia, to be elections 1956 in former Indochina to reunify.
140
Why did the US reject signing the Geneva Accords
Thought that elections would be in favour of Ho and therefore a communist victory
141
Diem
Leader of South Vietnam 1954-63, Catholic (family worked for French), gives better jobs to family and Catholics
142
How did Diem rig the elections in South Vietnam 1955?
'Won' 600,000 votes however only 400,000 people in Saigon
143
How was promotion in the ARVN (S.V.) corrupt?
To be promoted, had to be Catholic or show you were a commander whose troops did not die (therefore people did not send out their men to fight)
144
NLF/PLAF/Viet Cong
South Vietnamese communist resistance supporting Ho Chi Minh - controlled agriculture and education by 1960s
145
Strategic Hamlets (Vietnam)
Set up 3000, unpopular as it took people away from their ancestral homes and only Catholics given guns therefore many couldn't defend themselves. 2600 destroyed by Viet Cong
146
The Buddhist Crisis
May - Nov 1963, Diem bans religious flags, 9 buddhists shot for protesting in Hue (spiritual capital), June ARVN pour chemicals on protesters, Aug mass arrest 1400 which 'disappear', US disagrees - Kennedy suggests to replace Diem, ARVN assassinates Diem (with no US opposition)
147
How much financial aid given to South Vietnam from US during Eisenhower
$7 billion given by 1961, 78% of US foreign aid budget went to S.V.
148
Battle of Xuzhou strength for CCP
1948-9 CCP aided by 2 million peasant labourers mobilised by Deng Xiaoping
149
Evidence that Kennedy was against communism
Criticised Eisenhower for not containing communism and 1960 presidential campaign said he would be more against communism
150
How was intervention in Vietnam made more likely for Kennedy?
Bay of Pigs 1961 Cuba (failed invasion to oppose Fidel) and neutralisation of Laos made Kennedy seek victory. Diem seemed to have SV under control so he supported him.
151
Battle of Ap Bac
1963, first major confrontation between ARVN forces and the NLF during the Vietnam War resulting in VC victory. Diem ignored US advice and ARVN general Cao refused to fight. US public disapproved
152
How much of France's military bill in Indochina was being funded by Truman in 1953?
80%
153
By how much did the amount of military advisors in S. Vietnam increase during Kennedy?
700 in 1961 (max allowed in geneva convention) to 16000 by 1963
154
Operation Rolling Thunder
1965-68 bombing campaign against targets in North Vietnam and Ho Chi Minh Trail after Tonkin Incident
155
By how much did the amount of ground troups in Vietnam increase during Johnson?
3500 in 1965 to 500,000 in 1968
156
Cu Chi Tunnels
Viet Cong tunnels near Saigon housing up to 10,000 mostly located under US military bases. Had kitchens, hospitals and weapons factories.
157
Punji traps
Disguised sharpened bamboo sticks traps which meant to injure 1 soldier so that others would have to take care of them, becoming unavailable in combat
158
Ho Chi Minh Trail
1959 constructed. N.V. to S.V. through Laos and Cambodia to transport supplies. 1964 widened to accommodate trucks supplied by China and USSR. Long Haired Army worked along trail. US bombed trail but failed to destroy, losing expensive aircraft compared to the loss of Vietnam's cheaper trucks.
159
Long Haired Army
50,000 women commanded by Giap to repair parts of the Ho Chi Minh Trail bombed by the US
160
What did Giap say about the Vietnamese communist's war efforts?
"We were not strong enough to drive out half a million American troops, but that was not our aim. Our intention was to break the will of the Americans to continue the war"
161
Operation Phoenix
1968 Tried to destory NLF by identifying chiefs. Used violent torture in investigation and killed 26,000. Used napalm over homes, killed women, children and animals they depended on for food. This increased support for communists.
162
Battle of Ia Drang
1965 PAVN vs US. 300 A & 3000 N.V. died. Both sides viewed it as a victory. US considered body count however N.V. considered their determination against the US and how much damage was dealt to the US.
163
Agent Orange
Herbicide used for defoliating jungle. Had severe health impacts if people affected by it. Children born with mutations from parents affected. Caused cancer. Given to the South Vietnamese government by the US.
164
Cluster bombs
Bombs used in Vietnam which separated into 350-600 baby bombs. Hit without targets. Shows inconsideration of US troops for whether Vietnamese citizens were communist or not.
165
Why didn't the US understand the Vietnamese?
They had different cultures, Vietnamese were mostly rice-farmer peasants who lived in huts. Americans viewed them as unsophisticated and sub-human and didn't care to understand them.
166
Why did the communism appeal to South Vietnamese?
Communists had the same lifestyle as peasants, understanding their struggle. Harvesting usually done communally so turning to communism was easy. VC soldiers did not rape and pillage like ARVN. Although they were brutal to non-communists, they were kinder than the ARVN and the preferable alternative.
167
My Lai Massacre
Mar 1968 Village of non-combatants killed (504), 355 (70%) of which women and children. Soldiers sexually assaulted women. Incident covered up by army.
168
My Lai Massacre aftermath and trial
Nov 1969 Massacre uncovered with photos from reporters. Trial 1971 - 14 charged and 1 guilty (Lt. Calley). Seen by public as scapegoat. Increased anti-war sentiment but had no effect on war as US already leaving Vietnam 1971. Veterans seen as 'baby killers'
169
Reasons US lost Vietnam War
Over-reliance on indiscriminate firepower, little knowledge on VC tactics, much of the army young (~19) and unmotivated, search and destroy gained no land, didn't understand Vietnamese motivation and their own motivation, miscommunication between US and ARVN.
170
JFK presidential term
1961-63
171
Lyndon B. Johnson
1963-1969
172
When was Ky prime minister?
1965-67
173
Operation Cedar Falls
1967 Focused on flattening Iron Triangle stronghold (communist stronghold near Saigon) however no territorial gains so VC rebuilt tunnels
174
What was the aim of the Tet Offensive?
To make progress in the war by attacking cities to provoke an uprising and destroy targets against them (had previously only been in countryside)
175
When was the Battle of Khe Sanh
Jan to March 1968
176
What happened at the Battle of Khe Sanh?
US troops sent to Khe Sanh (nearest base in SV to DMZ) due to increased activity on Ho Chi Minh Trail, 6000 US v. 20,000 NV. US stuck, air only available. Conducted Operation Niagara. Both sides declare victory.
177
Operation Niagara
24,000 airstrikes conducted at Khe Sanh. 100,000 tonnes of bombs equal to $1 billion
178
What happened in the Tet Offensive in Hue?
5000 VC/NV seize new city and old citadel. Rounded up and killed 5000. US slowly took back territory over the course of 3 weeks relying mostly on allowance of air strikes from SV gov. Failed to spark uprising.
179
What was the Tet Offensive's effect on the US public?
Find out about credibility gap - US not doing as well as promoted, VC powerful. Walter Cronkite (popular news anchor states disbelief and says Vietnam cannot be won.
180
What was the Tet Offensive's effect on Johnson?
Announced reduction of bombing (never reduced anything previously). Announces he won't stand for re-election
181
When was Nixon president?
1969-1974
182
Policies Nixon introduced in 1969
Vietnamisation, draft lottery, raising of age of draft, secret bombing Cambodia (when found out, he ordered large-scale wiretapping). After failed Cambodian Offensive, advocated for blocking Haiphong and 'invading NV' (madman theory)
183
Congress opinion on Nixon
Disagreed with Cambodian offensive and madman theory, considered cutting funding 1970. Funding cut 1972.
184
Cambodian bombing
Started 1969. Nixon wanted to make up for Rolling Thunder. Aimed to destroy NV supplies, destroy communist HQ in Cambodia and pressure negotiations. Failed objectives
185
Nixon actions in 1970
Bombing Ho Chi Minh trail and Cambodia, escalated air offensive, withdrew 150,000 troops in Jan
186
Lam Son Offensive
ARVN attack Laos 1971 to disrupt Viet communist control along HCM trail. Supported by US. Failed objectives. Test of Vietnamisation.
187
Reasons for Sino-Soviet split
Ideological differences, rivals for leader of world communism, Mao aggressive (threatens Taiwan, attacks India due to disputes with Tibetan leader Dalai Lama who fled to India) and USSR disagrees, USSR refusal to help with nuclear bomb
188
Mao vs Khrushchev idealism
Mao - importance on peasantry, anti-western, idealised Stalin.
Khruschev - importance on proletariat (industrial), wanted peaceful co-existance with west, criticised Stalin.
189
When did the North Vietnamese capture Saigon?
1975
190
When did Nixon promise to secure peace and when did he 'achieve' it?
1968 and 1973
191
What percentage of the Cambodian population were peasants and ethnic Khmer?
80%
192
When did Norodom Sihanouk become King?
1941
193
Sihanouk in politics
Encouraged democracy when he was king 1946 until he shut down parliament 1948. Became prime minister in 1955 after abdicating 'winning' 99.8% of the vote. Had a neutral stance. Anti-communist but fell out with US in 1965, allowing VC to build bases in Cambodia.
194
When did Sihanouk abdicate?
1955
195
Cambodian Civil War
1967-1970 and 1970-1975 Communist uprising affected by the Vietnam War. Sihanouk initially wins but doesn't destroy them, angering them more. Sihanouk asked US for support 1968 but backfired as they sent US backed Lon Nol to lead a coup against Sihanouk. Resulted in Khmer Rouge victory.
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Lon Nol
1970-75 US backed leader of the Khmer Republic, came into power via coup against Sihanouk. Allowed US/ARVN invasion of Cambodia. Corrupt - abolished national assembly and combined role of president and prime minister for himself (total power)
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Pol Pot
1975-78 Leader of the Khmer Rouge and Democratic Kampuchea via victory of the Cambodian Civil War
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How many schools did Cambodia have from 1953 to 1967 after Sihanouk funded construction?
8 to 200
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When did Sihanouk start supporting the Khmer Rouge?
1970 after he was overthrown by Lon Nol and exiled
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What were the consequences of US invasion of Cambodia
Half the Cambodian population became refugees by 1973 from bombing
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Causes of the rise of Pol Pot/the Khmer Rouge
Sihanouk oppressive but later supports, Lon Nol allows US bombing, Khmer Rouge well organised and disciplined, land reform policies which were enacted as they gained territory (credibility). Vietnam war destabilised economy and SV stayed after US withdrawal in war, treating Cambodians terribly. Increased communists due to educated people from schools but no jobs
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Giap quote for Vietnam War against US
We were not strong enough to drive out a half-million American troops, but that wasn’t our aim. Our intention was to break the will of the American government to continue the war.
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How many Khmer Rouge were there by 1972
Up to 200,000
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What were the aims of the Khmer Rouge?
To exclude foreign influence, be self-sufficient in food production, have socialist policies and restore Cambodia to its empire.
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What were the policies of the Khmer Rouge?
Exclude foreigners and achieve racial uniformity via mass executions, rise status of peasant farmers, create agricultural co-operatives
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Reasons to support that the Khmer Rouge did ethnic cleansing
Targeted Muslim Chams, Chinese Cambodians, Vietnamese Cambodians and tribal minorities.
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Reasons against the idea that the Khmer Rouge did ethnic cleansing
Targeted those who lived in urban areas and intellectuals (identified by glasses, people who spoke another language or were teachers), most of Pol Pot's victims were ethnic Khmer. Targeted Vietnamese sympathisers and those who lived near the Vietnamese border. There was an ethnic Khmer rebellion in 1978.
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Khmer Rouge evacuation of urban settlements
2 million evacuated into countryside and put into agricultural labour camps in 1973. By 1979, 650,000 of them were dead
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What percentage of teachers in Cambodia were executed by the Khmer Rouge
80%
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Cambodia's relationship with China
China was Cambodia's only ally although Deng Xiaoping criticised the urban evacuation and Pol Pot as 'anarchic' and disorganised
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What did Pol Pot do to the Muslim Chams in Cambodia?
Ordered for 150,000 of them to be dispersed in 1975. Its population reduced by almost half by 1979
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Approval rating of Nixon's bombing of Cambodia
50% agree, 39% disagree
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Kent State University
1970, 4 students shot dead by National Guards for anti-war protest rally
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New York Anti-War Protest
1967, 400,000 protesters against Vietnam War.
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Syngman Rhee
President of South Korea, spent WW2 trying to secure Korean independence. Only Korean leader well known to Americans. Purged the National Assembly of members who opposed him. Frequently alluded to invasion before breakout to the point of US restricting military aid.
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Rhee's role in peace talks in Korea
Hindered the truce talks by ordering the release in June 1953 of 25,000 anticommunist North Korean prisoners which caused communists to renew attacks and target South Korean troops over UN forces
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Korean People’s Republic
Coalition of parties which included rightists, moderates, and Communists which wanted political unification but US refused to work with them in 1945 and assured them that a trusteeship would grant them unification. Outlawed by the American Military Government when KRP disagreed with them.
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When did peace talks begin in Korea?
July 1951
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Ridgway
Liked by troops but harsh when needed (sacked soldier who suggested a second retreat to Pusan). Improved reconnaisance and supply system and initiated careful counterattacks. Came up with 'Operation Killer' which MacArthur tried to take credit for.
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Neutral Nations Repatriation Commission
Many Chinese and NK prisoners refused to return to communism and eventually, Neutral Nations Repatriation Commission was set up to settle matters. Contributed towards ending the stalemate which included arguments in peace talks over prisoners.
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Why did the Korean War stalemate end?
1953, Eisenhower (republican, seen as less soft to communists) took over and had no relation to the war making it easy to end. Neutral Nations Repatriation Commission set up. Stalin dies, leading Khrushchev to succeed him who pressures Mao to give up fighting and accept peace terms.
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Gulf of Tonkin Incident
1964, US ships attacked by North Vietnamese ships. In response, President Johnson requested permission from the U.S. Congress to increase U.S. military presence in Indochina.
