Unit 2L2

Question 1

Geneva Conference (1954) split Vietnam in two – Communists in the North, Vietnamese Emperor in the South. The U.S. replaces France as the South Vietnamese chief supporter. Why? - fear of communism, belief in democracy, example to the allies, and underestimating the enemy. Kennedy sends troops to support S. Vietnam against N. Vietnam; Johnson continues/tries for peace; Nixon continues/works out a peace treaty. Ford does nothing when N. Vietnam takes control of all of Vietnam – uniting the country under communism. Contributes to Americans’ lack of faith in the government.

Answer 1

VIETNAM WAR

Question 2

Idea that the countries on the brink of communism were like dominoes set up in a line. If one went over, they would all go.

Answer 2

DOMINO THEORY

Question 3

An alliance of the U.S. and other countries similar to NATO, but in Southeast Asia. Felt obligated to protect South Vietnam from communist aggression.

Answer 3

SOUTHEAST TREATY ORGANIZATION

Question 4

Alleged attack of U.S. ships by North Vietnamese ships in the Gulf of Tonkin (off N. Vietnam’s coast) that prompts President Johnson to ask for and get broad military powers (“all necessary measures”) in Vietnam. Later information reveals the U.S. had been conducting secret raids against N. Vietnam, and Johnson had prepared his request to Congress months beforehand – this information begins to lead to American distrust of the government.

Answer 4

GULF OF TONIKIN INCIDENT

Question 5

Surprise attack by the Vietcong in many South Vietnam cities. U.S. and South Vietnamese forces eventually re-gain control, but this attack and the subsequent fighting changes U.S. public opinion. Many (including the media) become critical of the war.

Answer 5

TET OFFENSIVE

Question 6

President Nixon’s plan to gradually turn over control of the war to the South Vietnamese while slowly withdrawing U.S. troops.

Answer 6

VIETNAMIZATION

Question 7

Cease-fire agreement (January 1973) with the North Vietnamese based on removal of all U.S. troops. U.S. was still allowed to provide military and economic aid to South Vietnam.

Answer 7

PARIS PEACE ACCORDS

Question 8

Doves v. Hawks - doves wanted the U.S. to withdraw from Vietnam. Hawks thought an all-out military effort could bring victory and stop the spread of Communism. Draft was instituted. Some attempted to find ways around the draft. Conscientious objectors, opposed to war on religious or moral grounds, did not see combat – could still serve.

Answer 8

DISCONTENT DURING THE VIETNAM WAR