Overview
This lecture reviews the Vietnam War, its origins, major events, U.S. involvement, and its consequences as part of the broader Cold War struggle against communism.
Origins of the Vietnam War
- The Vietnam War was a conflict during the Cold War aimed at stopping the spread of communism.
- In 1954, Vietnam was divided at the Geneva Conference: North Vietnam was communist-led by Ho Chi Minh, and South Vietnam was non-communist under Ngo Dinh Diem.
- President Diem's anti-communist policies led to severe repression and loss of popular support.
Rise of the Viet Cong and U.S. Involvement
- The National Liberation Front (Viet Cong) emerged in 1956 to unify the country under communism using guerrilla tactics.
- The U.S. began providing training and support to South Vietnam in the late 1950s.
- Diem was overthrown and killed in a coup in 1963, destabilizing South Vietnam.
Escalation of the Conflict
- In 1964, alleged attacks on U.S. ships in the Gulf of Tonkin led to increased American involvement.
- U.S. troop numbers rose dramatically, and Operation Rolling Thunder (1965-1968) launched massive bombing campaigns in North Vietnam.
- The ground war escalated with the deployment of U.S. Marines and increased casualties for South Vietnamese forces.
Turning Point and Public Response
- The Tet Offensive in January 1968 was a major Viet Cong attack that shook U.S. public confidence despite military setbacks for communists.
- President Johnson chose not to run for reelection as U.S. casualties mounted and discontent grew.
Withdrawal and Aftermath
- President Nixon's policy of Vietnamization aimed to shift combat responsibility to South Vietnamese forces as U.S. troops withdrew.
- Antiwar protests intensified, especially after the 1970 Kent State shootings.
- The Paris Peace Accords in 1973 ended U.S. involvement, but fighting continued until 1975.
- Saigon fell in April 1975, resulting in Communist control over Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Viet Cong — South Vietnamese communist guerrilla fighters aiming to unify Vietnam under communism.
- Operation Rolling Thunder — Aerial bombing campaign by the U.S. against North Vietnam (1965-1968).
- Vietnamization — U.S. policy to transfer combat duties to South Vietnamese forces.
- Paris Peace Accords — 1973 agreement that ended direct U.S. military involvement in Vietnam.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review causes and consequences of U.S. involvement in Vietnam.
- Study the significance of the Tet Offensive and Paris Peace Accords.