Escalation Under Johnson

Question 1

Why was Johnson at a disadvantage?

Answer 1

Johnson had the same goals as Kennedy but was weaker. This was due to the VC being stronger, the South Vietnamese government being weaker, and the US’ growing unpopularity.

Question 2

Why were the VC growing in strength?

Answer 2

• NLF provided organisation and the North sent more men to organise resistance
• China and USSR supplied the North which helped larger attacks
• The government was seen as a puppet of the US and were split by infighting
• The VC had unlimited time
• They won local support through propaganda and respected villagers

Question 3

What did Johnson want to do in Vietnam?

Answer 3

He wanted Congress to authorise the use of US troops in Vietnam, but he did not want to bring up controversial issues to divide Congress.

Question 4

What happened in the Gulf of Tonkin incident?

Answer 4

• 2 August - the US boat “Maddox” was fired upon by North Vietnamese torpedo boats
• 4 August - the Maddox and C Turner Joy ships reported the attacks but there was miscommunication due to poor weather. Johnson retaliated regardless.
• 5 August - Johnson told Congress about the attacks asked them to give the the power to prevent attacks on US forces
• 7 August - Congress passed the Gulf of Tonkin resolution, granting Johnson’s request and allowing him to send troops to Vietnam

Question 5

What was the impact of the Gulf of Tonkin incident?

Answer 5

Congress agreed with Johnson and allowed him to have more power to defend themselves

The North Vietnamese saw this as a declaration of war and increased their involvement in the South, targeting US bases.

Question 6

What was the situation in February 1965?

Answer 6

The USA wanted South Vietnam to become a democratic nation which could defend itself.

North Vietnam wanted the South to revolt and unite with North Vietnam.

Johnson was advised poorly due to arrogant American attitudes.