Gulf Of Tonkin Incident

Question 1

What was Johnson trying to do during the incident?

Answer 1

Johnson wanted Congress to authorise the use of US troops in Vietnam.

Question 2

What were Maddox and C. Turner Joy?

Answer 2

Two US Navy ships.

Question 3

What happened on 2nd August?

Answer 3

Maddox radar showed 3 North Vietnamese torpedo boats closing in. Captain called for air support. Both boats fired and Maddox withdrew when US planes arrive.

Question 4

What happened on 4 August?

Answer 4

During bad storm both US ships reported N Vietnamese attacks. But there was confusion. Johnson was told of the incident but was then told there was no incident. Johnson ordered US planes to strike. 2 were shot down.

Question 5

What happened on 5th August?

Answer 5

Johnson told Congress about the attack on the Maddox and C. Turner Joy. He asked Congress to give him the power to stop futre attacks on US.

Question 6

What happened on 7th August?

Answer 6

Congress passed Gulf of Tonkin Resolution. Giving Johnson all power necessary to stop attacks on US forces without consulting congress or declaring war. This led to troops going to Vietnam.

Question 7

What is the Gulf of Tonkin resolution?

Answer 7

This led to Johnson being able to attack on threats to US forces without consulting Congress.

Question 8

North Vietnamese reaction?

Answer 8

In response, they increased their involvement in South Vietnam.