Vietnam War

Question 1

List 6 reasons for Australia’s involvement in the war:

Answer 1

Alliance - SEATO and ANZUS
Fear of Communism
The Geography of the Region and the Domino Theory
Requests for Australia’s involvement from the US and the Gov. of South Vietnam.
Australia was prepared for war
Australia had previously committed troops in other countries to fight.

Question 2

When did Robert Menzies announce that Australia would be sending combat troops to Vietnam to the Parliament?

Answer 2

On 29 April, 1965.

Question 3

Fear of communism:

Answer 3

Australians concerned communism would undermine Australia’s plans for a peaceful/secure future. seen as a disease spreading and determined to destroy Australia’s way of life.
Feared a communist invasion from within and without own society.

Question 4

Domino Theory:

Answer 4

Vietnam to Indonesia - Indonesia if turn to communism cause conflict to Aus as it is right near the northern tip of Aus. Fear of geographically feeling isolated and surrounded by communist countries spurred into korean and vietnam war.
Containing communism before it arrived on Australia’s shore became foreign policy of period.

Question 5

SEATO alliace

Answer 5

America called on allies to provide active support to contain communist threats. As a member of SEATO, Aus had a treaty obligation to help in defence of South Vietnam.

Question 6

Dependence on America (alliance)

Answer 6

If Aus didn’t help America in Vietnam war, then America might not come to Australia’s aid when in need.
For security in Aus.
Australia worked alongside America during Korean War and new country other than Britain to rely on.

Question 7

What 7 nations folloed US to Vietnam?

Answer 7

Aus, NZ, South Korea, the Philippines, Thailand, Spain and Taiwan.