vietnam Flashcards
(22 cards)
What was the main goal of the U.S. during the Cold War in relation to communism?
To stop the spread of communism (Containment Policy)
The U.S. adopted the Containment Policy to prevent the expansion of communism globally.
What is the Domino Theory?
Belief that if one country fell to communism, neighboring countries would follow
This theory was a significant justification for U.S. involvement in foreign conflicts.
What event led to the division of Vietnam at the 17th parallel?
1954 – Geneva Accords
The Geneva Accords were agreements that temporarily divided Vietnam into North and South.
Who led North Vietnam?
Ho Chi Minh
Ho Chi Minh was a key figure in the Vietnamese struggle for independence and communism.
What type of government was established in South Vietnam?
Non-communist, supported by the U.S.
The U.S. backed the government in South Vietnam to prevent the spread of communism.
What significant incident occurred in 1964 that escalated U.S. involvement?
Gulf of Tonkin Incident
This incident involved alleged attacks on U.S. ships, leading to increased military engagement.
What resolution was passed following the Gulf of Tonkin Incident?
Gulf of Tonkin Resolution
This resolution gave President Johnson the authority to use military force in Vietnam.
What year did U.S. combat troops arrive in Vietnam?
1965
The deployment of combat troops marked the beginning of direct U.S. military involvement.
What tactics were used by U.S. forces in Vietnam?
Search and destroy missions, use of napalm and Agent Orange
These tactics aimed to eliminate enemy forces but had devastating effects on civilians and the environment.
Who was disproportionately affected by the draft during the Vietnam War?
Poor and minority communities
The draft often targeted those with fewer resources to avoid service.
What challenges did U.S. forces face in Vietnam?
Guerrilla warfare, unfamiliar terrain, lack of support from some South Vietnamese, credibility gap
These factors complicated military operations and affected morale.
What was the Tet Offensive?
Massive surprise attack by North Vietnamese and Viet Cong in 1968
Although a military defeat for North Vietnam, it significantly impacted U.S. public opinion.
What was Vietnamization?
Gradual withdrawal of U.S. troops, allowing South Vietnamese to take over fighting
This policy was introduced under President Nixon.
What characterized the anti-war movement in America?
Protests on college campuses and in major cities
Groups like SDS and Vietnam Veterans Against the War played crucial roles.
What major incident occurred during the 1968 Democratic National Convention?
Protests in Chicago
These protests highlighted the growing division over the Vietnam War.
What happened during the Kent State Shootings in 1970?
National Guard killed 4 student protesters
This incident fueled national anger and increased division over the war.
What was unique about media coverage of the Vietnam War?
First war televised in detail
Graphic images and reports contributed to eroding public support for the war.
What were the Paris Peace Accords?
Peace talks leading to U.S. withdrawal from Vietnam in 1973
These accords aimed to establish peace and end U.S. involvement in the war.
What event marked the fall of South Vietnam?
Fall of Saigon in 1975
This event led to the reunification of Vietnam under a communist government.
What was one significant legacy of the Vietnam War for the U.S.?
Loss of over 58,000 American lives
The war’s toll affected American society and policy for decades.
What legislation was passed in 1973 to limit presidential military power?
War Powers Act
This act was a direct response to concerns about unchecked executive power during the Vietnam War.
What were the ongoing effects of chemical warfare on Vietnam?
Massive destruction and loss of life
Chemical agents like Agent Orange had long-term health and environmental impacts.
