Vietnam war Flashcards
By who was Vietnam ruled by and how was it called before the Japanese invaded?
The french and it was called Indochina.
How did the communist movement start in Vietnam?
The Japanese conquered Vietnam in WW2, and they treated Vietnamese people very harshly. Therefore, a strong anti-Japanese movement started, the Viet Minh.
Who was the leader?
The Viet Minhand the communists were lead by Ho Chi Minh, who believed in communism.
When did Vietnam declare independence?
The communists entered the city of Hanoi after the WW2, and declared independence in 1949.
How did the French react to the independence and what did they do?
France was not happy and came back in 1945. Another 9 years of war followed, as the North was controlled by The Viet Minh, and the south was controlled by the French.
What did china do in 1949?
Communist China started supporting Ho Chi Minh, by giving military aid.
How did the USA respond?
It gave the French 500 million a year for the war effort, as they wanted to oppose the spread of communism.
When did the French pull out of Vietnam?
In 1954
What was decided at the Geneva peace conference?
The country was divided into North and South, until elections could be held to decide its future.
Why did the Americans not allow to give free elections in Vietnam?
They feared that Vietnam would become communist, and that other countries would then too. (domino effect)
What did JFK do?
He sent an elite group of soldiers, he doubled military founding, he authorised the use of Na Palm.
What did the americans do in 1955?
They helped Ngo Dinh Diem to set up the Republic of South Vietnam, as he was very anti-communist. They gave him $1.6 billion.
What was the problem with this republic?
The people hated Ngo Dinh Diem due to massacres, and he eventually became a dictator.
What happened to Ngo Dinh Diem?
He was assassinated.
What was the new problem then for the USA?
JFK didn’t know how to replace him.
