Vietnam

Question 1

Give reasons for US involvement in Vietnam (1954-63)

Answer 1

The fear of communism (domino theory). This definitely increased involvement because Eisenhower set up SEATO (UK, USA, France, New Zealand, Australia, Pakistan, the Philippines and Thailand) to stop the spread of communism.

Dien Bien Phu- On the 7th May 1954, the French surrendered. France needed support to stop communism.

Diem’s government- In 1959, the Vietminh start a terror campaign against Diem’s government. Diem was Catholic in a Buddhist country, he also had little respect for the poor and didn’t make reforms, so he was clearly unpopular.

Question 2

When was the Gulf of Tonkin?

Answer 2

2-7th August 1964

Question 3

What are the key events of the Gulf of Tonkin?

Answer 3

On the 2nd August, the Maddox radar showed 3 North Vietnamese torpedo boats, the North Vietnamese fired.

On the 4th August, both the Maddox and the C. Turner Joy thought they were under attack and reported this.

Johnson ordered airstrikes on North Vietnam, despite doubts.

The Gulf of Tonkin resolution was passed on the 7th August, and he could stop any attacks without consulting the Congress.

Question 4

How did US involvement change under Nixon?

Answer 4

Nixon Doctrine was passed in 1969, with plans to lower US involvement and send more military advisers to the country.

Troops withdrawn on 14th July.

More military training for the Vietnamese.

Question 5

US tactics

Answer 5

Drafting lots of troops
Search and Destroy patrols
Bombing
Chemical weaponry

Question 6

Vietnam tactics

Answer 6

Booby traps (10% Vietnamese killed)
Ambush
Underground tunnels