Vietnam War Flashcards
(193 cards)
1
Q
What was the objective of the Geneva Conference of 1954?
A
To find a peaceful solution to the conflict between the French colonial forces and the Viet Minh in Vietnam
The conference aimed to resolve ongoing tensions and establish a framework for peace.
2
Q
Who were the key participants in the Geneva Conference?
A
Representatives from France, the Viet Minh, the United States, the Soviet Union, China, the United Kingdom, and other interested parties
These nations were significant stakeholders in the outcome of the conference.
3
Q
What were the main outcomes of the Geneva Accords?
A
Ceasefire Agreement, Division of Vietnam, Elections, Withdrawal of Foreign Forces
These agreements aimed to establish peace and political structure in Vietnam.
4
Q
What was the ceasefire agreement in the Geneva Accords?
A
A ceasefire was agreed upon between French forces and the Viet Minh
This agreement marked a significant step towards ending hostilities.
5
Q
How was Vietnam divided according to the Geneva Accords?
A
Vietnam was temporarily divided at the 17th parallel into North Vietnam (controlled by the Viet Minh) and South Vietnam (under a pro-Western government)
This division was intended to be temporary until elections could unify the country.
6
Q
What was agreed upon regarding national elections in the Geneva Accords?
A
National elections were to be held in 1956 to unify the country under a single government
These elections were never held, contributing to ongoing conflict.
7
Q
What provisions were made for foreign military forces in the Geneva Accords?
A
Provisions were made for the withdrawal of foreign military forces and the establishment of a demilitarized zone
This aimed to reduce foreign influence and military presence in Vietnam.
8
Q
What was the significance of the Geneva Conference of 1954?
A
It was crucial in shaping the political landscape of Southeast Asia and set the stage for the Vietnam War
The conference’s outcomes had long-lasting impacts on regional politics.
9
Q
True or False: The Geneva Accords successfully implemented all agreements, including the national elections in Vietnam.
A
False
The failure to hold national elections contributed to further conflict in the region.
10
Q
Fill in the blank: The Geneva Conference of 1954 aimed to find a peaceful solution to the conflict between the French colonial forces and the _______.
A
Viet Minh
The Viet Minh was a key player in the struggle for Vietnamese independence.
11
Q
What was the NLF?
A
The National Liberation Front (NLF) was a coalition opposing the South Vietnamese government and sought to unify Vietnam under communist rule.
Established in 1960, it served as the political arm of the Viet Cong.
12
Q
Who were the key leaders of the NLF?
A
Key leaders included:
* Nguyễn Hữu Thọ (chairman)
* Trương Như Tảng
* Huỳnh Tấn Phát
These leaders played significant roles in guiding the NLF’s strategies and political direction.
13
Q
What types of individuals made up the membership of the NLF?
A
Membership included:
* Communist cadres
* Rural peasants disillusioned with the South Vietnamese government
This diversity helped the NLF connect with various segments of the population.
14
Q
From whom did the NLF receive significant support?
A
The NLF received support from:
* North Vietnam
* Soviet Union
* China
This support included logistical, financial, and military aid.
15
Q
What was the primary goal of the NLF?
A
The primary goal was to reunify North and South Vietnam under a communist government.
They viewed the division as a result of foreign interference, particularly by the United States.
16
Q
Why did the NLF oppose the South Vietnamese government?
A
The NLF opposed the South Vietnamese government due to:
* Authoritarian practices
* Corruption
* Repression of political dissidents and religious groups
These factors contributed to widespread discontent among the population.
17
Q
How did the NLF view US involvement in Vietnam?
A
The NLF viewed US involvement as a form of neocolonialism and sought to expel American influence from the region.
This perspective fueled their resistance and mobilization efforts.
18
Q
What tactics did the NLF employ in their fight?
A
The NLF employed:
* Guerrilla warfare
* Political mobilization
* Propaganda and psychological warfare
These tactics were aimed at destabilizing the South Vietnamese government and gaining popular support.
19
Q
What was a key aspect of the NLF’s political mobilization?
A
They addressed grievances, promoted land reforms, and provided social services in areas under their control.
This helped them gain support among the rural population.
20
Q
What was a significant aspect of the NLF’s propaganda efforts?
A
The NLF highlighted the corruption and brutality of the Diem regime to garner support.
Their propaganda aimed to promote the cause of national liberation.
21
Q
What characterized President Ngo Dinh Diem’s government?
A
Diệm’s government was characterized by:
* Authoritarian rule
* Suppression of political opposition
* Curtailment of civil liberties
This alienated many South Vietnamese citizens and fueled opposition.
22
Q
What was a major issue during the Buddhist crisis of 1963?
A
The major issue was religious repression, as Diem’s Catholic regime discriminated against the Buddhist majority.
This led to widespread discontent and uprisings.
23
Q
What issues plagued the Diem government?
A
The Diem government was plagued by:
* Corruption
* Inefficiency
* Nepotism
These issues eroded public confidence and aided the NLF’s recruitment efforts.
24
Q
What were the primary causes of the Civil War in Vietnam?
A
Political and ideological divisions between the communist forces in the North and the anti-communist government in the South
The North aimed to reunify the country under a socialist government while the South sought to maintain its independence and capitalist system.
25
Who led the North Vietnamese government during the Civil War?
Ho Chi Minh and the communist Viet Minh
## Footnote
Ho Chi Minh was a key figure in the Vietnamese struggle for independence and unification.
26
Who was the leader of the South Vietnamese government?
Ngo Dinh Diem
## Footnote
Ngo Dinh Diem was supported by the United States in his efforts to maintain a non-communist regime.
27
What was the main goal of the North Vietnamese forces?
To reunify the country under a socialist government
## Footnote
This goal was driven by the desire to create a unified communist state.
28
What was the primary aim of the government of South Vietnam?
To maintain its independence and capitalist system
## Footnote
The South Vietnamese government opposed the spread of communism in the region.
29
Fill in the blank: The tensions in Vietnam escalated due to opposing _______ and the desire for control over the entire country.
ideologies
30
True or False: The Civil War in Vietnam was solely based on territorial disputes.
False
## Footnote
The conflict was deeply rooted in political and ideological divisions.
31
What does ARVN stand for?
Army of the Republic of Vietnam
32
When was the ARVN established?
1955
33
What was the primary role of the ARVN?
Main ground force fighting against the North Vietnamese Army and Viet Cong insurgents
34
What major international agreement split Vietnam into North and South?
Geneva Accords
35
What type of assistance did the U.S. provide to the ARVN?
Military Training, Equipment and Supplies, Financial Support, Direct Military Involvement
36
What was one of the key forms of military assistance provided by the U.S. to the ARVN?
Military Training
37
What types of military hardware did the U.S. supply to the ARVN?
Rifles, machine guns, artillery, tanks, aircraft, helicopters, naval vessels
38
What other types of support did the U.S. provide to the ARVN aside from equipment?
Logistical support such as ammunition, medical supplies, and food
39
What was the purpose of the financial support provided to the ARVN?
To support operational and personnel costs, aiming to build a robust and self-sufficient military
40
True or False: The ARVN was the only force fighting on the ground during the Vietnam War.
False
41
Fill in the blank: The U.S. military engaged directly in combat operations alongside the ARVN during major operations such as the _______ and the _______.
Tet Offensive, Easter Offensive
42
What was the secret mission of the Viet Cong (VC)?
The secret mission of the VC was to overthrow the South Vietnamese government and expel American forces through guerrilla warfare, political propaganda, and control over rural areas.
43
When was the Viet Cong (VC) formally established?
The VC was formally established on December 20, 1960.
44
What historical event led to the formation of the VC?
The origins of the VC can be traced back to the First Indochina War (1946-1954) and the dissatisfaction with the South Vietnamese government under President Ngo Dinh Diem.
45
What were the two forbiddances for VC members?
1. Engaging in Corruption: VC members were forbidden from corrupt practices like embezzlement or accepting bribes.
2. Mishandling Civilians: Any mistreatment of civilians was prohibited.
46
What were the two permissible activities for VC members?
1. Recruitment and Training: VC cadres were encouraged to recruit and train new members.
2. Political Propaganda: Disseminating political propaganda to win support from the rural populace was permitted.
47
What tactics did the VC primarily use in combat?
The VC primarily used guerrilla warfare tactics, including ambushes, hit-and-run attacks, sabotage, and booby traps.
48
What was the advantage of the Ho Chi Minh Trail?
The Ho Chi Minh Trail provided secrecy and security for transporting troops and supplies, and allowed for sustained support crucial for military campaigns in the South.
49
Who was Joseph McCarthy?
A U.S. Senator from Wisconsin known for anti-communist sentiment in the early 1950s
## Footnote
McCarthy gained national fame by claiming that numerous communists and Soviet spies had infiltrated the U.S. government, military, and other institutions.
50
What does McCarthyism refer to?
The practice of making accusations of subversion or treason without proper regard for evidence
## Footnote
It is characterized by heightened political repression and the unfair targeting of individuals accused of being communists or communist sympathizers.
51
What was the objective of 'The Red Iceberg'?
To illustrate and amplify the perceived threat of communism spreading globally
## Footnote
The imagery of an iceberg symbolizes hidden dangers and communist infiltration.
52
How true was McCarthyism?
Based on genuine fears and exaggerated or unfounded accusations
## Footnote
While there were Soviet spies, McCarthy's methods were often reckless and led to violations of civil liberties.
53
What happened to McCarthy's influence after the Army-McCarthy hearings?
His influence waned and he was formally censured by the Senate
## Footnote
The hearings exposed his aggressive tactics and lack of concrete evidence.
54
What was the outcome of McCarthy's Senate censure?
He was stripped of his power and influence
## Footnote
Although he remained in the Senate, he had little impact afterward.
55
When did Joseph McCarthy die?
In 1957
## Footnote
His death was likely due to complications related to alcoholism.
56
Fill in the blank: McCarthyism is characterized by heightened political _______.
repression
57
True or False: McCarthy's accusations were always substantiated by concrete evidence.
False
58
What was General Westmoreland's belief about defeating the Viet Cong and NVA?
Westmoreland and military leaders believed they could defeat the Viet Cong and NVA through superior firepower and conventional tactics.
## Footnote
This outlook underestimated the resilience of North Vietnamese forces and the nature of guerrilla warfare.
59
What was the troop deployment increase from 1965 to 1967?
U.S. troop deployments rose from about 200,000 in 1965 to over 500,000 by 1967.
## Footnote
Westmoreland remained confident that increased military presence could wear down the enemy.
60
What did Westmoreland underestimate about the Viet Cong and NVA?
He underestimated their determination to continue fighting despite heavy casualties.
## Footnote
North Vietnamese leadership was willing to endure long-term losses for reunification.
61
What was a key flaw in Westmoreland's approach to warfare?
His approach was based on conventional warfare strategies, which were ill-suited for guerrilla tactics.
## Footnote
The Viet Cong operated in small, mobile units, avoiding large-scale engagements.
62
What was Westmoreland's reliance on U.S. technology?
He relied heavily on U.S. technological superiority, which did not lead to decisive victories against a more agile enemy.
## Footnote
This overconfidence was a significant miscalculation.
63
What was the Search and Destroy strategy?
It aimed at locating and killing Viet Cong and NVA forces rather than holding territory.
## Footnote
The concept was to 'find, fix, and finish' the enemy.
64
What was a major problem with the Search and Destroy strategy?
The body count mentality distorted the sense of progress, as success was measured by enemy killed.
## Footnote
Reports of enemy losses were often inflated.
65
What impact did the Search and Destroy strategy have on civilians?
It led to large-scale destruction and significant civilian casualties, alienating the South Vietnamese population.
## Footnote
This increased support for the Viet Cong.
66
How did the Viet Cong adapt to U.S. tactics?
They were adept at avoiding large-scale confrontations, often blending in with civilians.
## Footnote
This made it difficult for U.S. forces to decisively engage them.
67
What did Westmoreland report to Congress in 1967?
He expressed optimism, claiming that the U.S. was making progress and that the 'crossover point' was approaching.
## Footnote
He argued that enemy losses would exceed their ability to replace them.
68
What did Westmoreland emphasize in his congressional testimony?
He assured Congress that the strategy of attrition was working and that the enemy was being severely weakened.
## Footnote
He pointed to high body counts as evidence.
69
What call did Westmoreland make to Congress and the public?
He called for patience and support for the war effort, emphasizing that victory was achievable with sustained effort.
## Footnote
He downplayed growing anti-war sentiment.
70
What did the 1954 Geneva Accords accomplish?
Temporarily divided Vietnam into North and South at the 17th parallel
## Footnote
This division was meant to be a temporary measure pending elections that were never held.
71
Who did Eisenhower support in South Vietnam?
Ngo Dinh Diem
## Footnote
Diem was supported to establish a non-communist government.
72
What type of aid did the Eisenhower administration provide to South Vietnam?
Military advisors and economic aid
## Footnote
This support was aimed at strengthening Diem's government against communism.
73
What is the Domino Theory?
The fall of Vietnam to communism would threaten the rest of Southeast Asia
## Footnote
This theory was a significant rationale for U.S. involvement in Vietnam.
74
What organization was formed in 1954 to prevent the spread of communism in Southeast Asia?
Southeast Asia Treaty Organization (SEATO)
## Footnote
SEATO was a collective defense arrangement among several countries.
75
How many military advisors did Kennedy increase in Vietnam?
From around 700 to over 16,000
## Footnote
This significant increase was part of Kennedy's commitment to combating communism.
76
What was the purpose of the Strategic Hamlet Program?
To isolate rural populations from Viet Cong influence
## Footnote
The program faced challenges and criticism for its effectiveness.
77
What was a notable characteristic of Diem’s regime during Kennedy's presidency?
Continued support despite growing unpopularity and internal issues
## Footnote
Kennedy's administration maintained its backing even as Diem faced increasing opposition.
78
What doctrine did Kennedy focus on regarding military strategy?
Flexible Response
## Footnote
This doctrine emphasized counterinsurgency and the use of special forces.
79
What significant event occurred regarding Diem in 1963?
Kennedy tacitly approved a coup leading to Diem's assassination
## Footnote
This event contributed to further instability in South Vietnam.
80
What was the Strategic Hamlet Program (SHP)?
A counterinsurgency initiative implemented by the South Vietnamese government with U.S. support during the Vietnam War.
81
What was the primary aim of the Strategic Hamlet Program (SHP)?
To isolate rural populations from the influence and control of the Viet Cong (VC).
82
What method did the Strategic Hamlet Program (SHP) use to achieve its aim?
Relocating villagers to fortified and consolidated communities known as 'strategic hamlets.'
83
What were the goals of creating 'strategic hamlets'?
* Provide security
* Promote government presence
* Improve living standards of the rural population
84
What was the intended effect of the Strategic Hamlet Program (SHP) on the Viet Cong insurgents?
To reduce the support for the Viet Cong insurgents.
85
What was a significant issue with the implementation of the strategic hamlets program?
The program was often implemented hastily and without proper planning.
86
What were the living conditions like in the hastily constructed strategic hamlets?
Substandard living conditions due to inadequate resources.
87
Why did many Vietnamese peasants resist relocation to strategic hamlets?
They were forced to leave their ancestral homes and farmlands.
88
What failed to be delivered to the peasants that contributed to their resentment?
Promised benefits like security, infrastructure, and better living conditions.
89
What security issues did the inhabitants of the strategic hamlets face?
The hamlets were frequently targeted by the Viet Cong.
90
Did the strategic hamlets provide the intended protection?
No, they failed to provide the intended protection.
91
What date did the first incident of the Gulf of Tonkin occur?
August 2, 1964
92
What was the USS Maddox conducting on August 2, 1964?
A signals intelligence patrol in international waters
93
What operation was the USS Maddox part of during the Gulf of Tonkin Incident?
Operation Plan 34A
94
How did the USS Maddox respond to the North Vietnamese PT boats on August 2, 1964?
Fired warning shots
95
What did the North Vietnamese boats do in response to the USS Maddox's warning shots?
Launched torpedoes
96
What was the outcome of the first incident involving the USS Maddox?
The Maddox was not hit, and no U.S. casualties were reported
97
What date did the second incident of the Gulf of Tonkin occur?
August 4, 1964
98
What was the USS Maddox accompanied by during the second incident?
The destroyer USS Turner Joy
99
What were the U.S. ships responding to during the second incident on August 4, 1964?
Possible attack from North Vietnamese boats
100
What led to doubts about the second incident in the Gulf of Tonkin?
Bad weather, confusion, and potentially false sonar and radar readings
101
Who used the Gulf of Tonkin Incident as justification for escalating U.S. military involvement in Vietnam?
President Lyndon B. Johnson
102
What did Congress pass on August 7, 1964, in response to the Gulf of Tonkin Incident?
The Gulf of Tonkin Resolution
103
What authority did the Gulf of Tonkin Resolution grant to President Johnson?
Broad military powers to repel armed attacks and prevent further aggression
104
What significant military action did the Gulf of Tonkin Resolution lead to?
Large-scale deployment of American troops in Vietnam
105
When was the Gulf of Tonkin Resolution repealed?
1971
106
What was a key reason for the repeal of the Gulf of Tonkin Resolution?
The Vietnam War became increasingly unpopular
107
True or False: The second incident in the Gulf of Tonkin was confirmed to have occurred.
False
108
Fill in the blank: The Gulf of Tonkin Incident allowed the U.S. to escalate its involvement in Vietnam through the _______.
Tonkin Resolution
109
What legacy did the Gulf of Tonkin Resolution leave regarding U.S. military commitments?
A reminder of how limited information can lead to significant military commitments
110
What was Operation Rolling Thunder?
A demonstration of America's near total air supremacy during the Vietnam War
## Footnote
It aimed to demoralize the North Vietnamese people and undermine their government.
111
What was the initial goal of Operation Rolling Thunder?
To demoralize the North Vietnamese people and undermine the capacity of the North Vietnamese government
## Footnote
This operation was part of the broader strategy during the Vietnam War.
112
What strategy did the U.S. adopt during the Korean War when faced with numerous Chinese troops?
They decided to advance air technology instead of a ground invasion.
113
How did the U.S. attempt to counter guerrilla warfare in Vietnam?
By using superior technology to defeat their enemy.
114
What role did B-52 bombers play in the Vietnam War?
They were used to 'carpet bomb' areas of enemy territory
## Footnote
3,500 B-52s were utilized for transport and aerial dominance.
115
How many military 'advisors' did the U.S. send to Vietnam at the beginning of their involvement?
16,000 military 'advisors' were sent by President Kennedy.
116
What order did President LBJ give on February 7, 1965?
To bomb targets in North Vietnam including towns, naval bases, and airfields, known as Operation Rolling Thunder.
117
What was the financial cost associated with the air war in Vietnam?
The air war cost a lot of money; it was reported to cost $400,000 to kill one Viet Cong fighter.
118
True or False: The Communists shot down 14,000 aircraft during the Vietnam War.
True.
119
What type of warfare did US soldiers face in Vietnam?
Intense jungle warfare and guerrilla tactics
## Footnote
Soldiers also dealt with extreme weather and psychological stress.
120
What were the challenges faced by US soldiers in Vietnam?
Unclear objectives, booby traps, and constant ambushes
## Footnote
These challenges contributed to the psychological stress experienced by soldiers.
121
What was the US military strategy known as during the Vietnam War?
'Search and Destroy' missions
## Footnote
This strategy aimed to locate and eliminate enemy forces.
122
What operation highlighted the US tactics of air superiority in Vietnam?
Operation Rolling Thunder
## Footnote
This operation involved extensive bombing campaigns against North Vietnam.
123
What was heavily utilized by the US military in Vietnam to combat guerrilla forces?
Helicopters and firepower
## Footnote
Helicopters were essential for troop transport and air support.
124
What conditions did American POWs endure in Vietnam?
Brutal conditions, torture, and extended captivity
## Footnote
Many were held in notorious prisons like the 'Hanoi Hilton.'
125
True or False: American POWs in Vietnam were often held in humane conditions.
False
## Footnote
POWs faced severe physical and mental suffering.
126
What condition is characterized by nightmares, flashbacks, anxiety, and depression in soldiers returning from Vietnam?
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
## Footnote
PTSD was one of the first mental health conditions widely recognized in the context of war.
127
What psychological burden did soldiers face due to guilt or shame over their actions during the Vietnam War?
Moral Injury
## Footnote
Incidents like the My Lai Massacre contributed to feelings of moral conflict.
128
What substance became a significant issue among soldiers during the Vietnam War as a coping mechanism?
Heroin
## Footnote
Many soldiers turned to drugs or alcohol to cope with combat stress.
129
How were Vietnam veterans treated upon their return compared to veterans of previous wars?
They were not universally welcomed as heroes
## Footnote
Public opposition to the war led to criticism and ostracism of veterans.
130
What widespread sentiment developed among Americans due to the Vietnam War and revelations like the Pentagon Papers?
Public Disillusionment
## Footnote
Many Americans lost trust in their government leaders due to the war's progress and deception.
131
What movement emerged as a response to the psychological strain of the Vietnam War and the draft affecting young men?
Anti-War Movement
## Footnote
Protests, often led by students, became a defining feature of this era.
132
What tragic event in 1970 deepened the psychological toll of the Vietnam War on the public?
Kent State shooting
## Footnote
Unarmed protesters were killed by the National Guard during this incident.
133
What type of divide did the Vietnam War create between older and younger Americans?
Generational Divide
## Footnote
This divide led to family tensions and social conflict during the 1960s and 1970s.
134
What was significant about the Vietnam War in terms of media coverage?
It was the first televised war
## Footnote
Graphic images of violence and destruction had a deep emotional impact on Americans.
135
Fill in the blank: The trauma of guerrilla warfare and witnessing death contributed to _______.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
136
True or False: Vietnam veterans were generally celebrated and honored upon their return home.
False
## Footnote
Unlike previous wars, many veterans faced criticism and alienation.
137
What was the Tet Offensive?
A major surprise attack by the Viet Cong and North Vietnamese Army during the Vietnam War in January 1968
## Footnote
Launched during Tet, the Vietnamese New Year, when a ceasefire was expected.
138
When did the Tet Offensive occur?
January 1968
## Footnote
It coincided with the Vietnamese New Year, Tet.
139
What was the most famous battle during the Tet Offensive?
The attack on the U.S. Embassy in Saigon
## Footnote
This was one of the key events that highlighted the surprise nature of the offensive.
140
What was the outcome of the Tet Offensive for U.S. and South Vietnamese forces?
They fought back and eventually won militarily, pushing the attackers back and killing thousands of Viet Cong
## Footnote
Despite military victory, the Tet Offensive had significant psychological impacts.
141
Why is the Tet Offensive considered a turning point in the Vietnam War?
It changed U.S. public opinion and led to growing anti-war protests
## Footnote
Media coverage of the violence shook people's confidence in the war effort.
142
What effect did the Tet Offensive have on U.S. public opinion?
It shifted to a more negative view of the war, showing that the enemy was still strong
## Footnote
Prior to the offensive, the public had been led to believe America was winning.
143
What was a significant political consequence of the Tet Offensive?
President Lyndon B. Johnson decided not to run for re-election
## Footnote
This decision was influenced by the collapse of support for the war.
144
Fill in the blank: The Viet Cong were badly hurt in terms of numbers but gained a huge _______.
propaganda victory
## Footnote
This allowed them to maintain support despite military losses.
145
What was the overall impact of the Tet Offensive on the Viet Cong?
They were weakened in numbers but gained increased control and propaganda success for North Vietnam
## Footnote
The offensive demonstrated their resilience despite losses.
146
True or False: The Tet Offensive was a military victory for the Viet Cong.
False
## Footnote
It was a military defeat but served as a psychological and propaganda victory.
147
What was the main goal of Vietnamization?
To shift the responsibility for fighting the war from U.S. troops to the South Vietnamese army (ARVN)
148
In what year was Vietnamization announced?
1969
149
What factors contributed to the announcement of Vietnamization?
Increasing opposition to the war due to high casualties, financial costs, and media coverage
150
What significant event in 1968 influenced public perception of the Vietnam War?
The Tet Offensive
151
What support did the U.S. provide to the South Vietnamese army (ARVN) under Vietnamization?
Military training, weapons, and equipment
152
What was the outcome of U.S. withdrawal as a result of Vietnamization?
Most U.S. forces had been withdrawn by 1973
153
What challenges did the ARVN face despite the Vietnamization policy?
Corruption, poor leadership, and low morale
154
What event officially ended U.S. involvement in Vietnam?
The signing of the Paris Peace Accords in 1973
155
What happened in 1975 that marked the end of the Vietnam War?
North Vietnamese forces captured Saigon
156
What was the significance of the Kent State University shootings?
They played a pivotal role in the downfall of President Richard Nixon
157
On what date did the Kent State University shootings occur?
May 4, 1970
158
What was the immediate trigger for the Kent State University protests?
Nixon's expansion of the Vietnam War into Cambodia
159
How many students were killed during the Kent State University shootings?
Four students
160
What was the public reaction to the Kent State University shootings?
Nationwide outrage and mass protests against Nixon's policies
161
What effect did the Kent State shootings have on public trust in the government?
It eroded public trust
162
What other controversy, alongside the Kent State shootings, contributed to Nixon's decline?
The Watergate scandal
163
True or False: The Kent State shootings contributed to Nixon's resignation in 1974.
True
164
Fill in the blank: The Kent State shootings symbolized the administration's inability to manage _______.
domestic unrest
165
What event is referred to as the My Lai Massacre?
The killing of between 347 and 504 unarmed civilians by U.S. soldiers on March 16, 1968.
166
Which company was responsible for the My Lai Massacre?
Charlie Company of the 11th Brigade of the Americal Division.
167
Who was the commander of the soldiers involved in the My Lai Massacre?
Lieutenant William Calley.
168
What was the original mission of the soldiers during the My Lai Massacre?
A 'search and destroy' mission targeting Viet Cong forces.
169
What actions did the soldiers take during the My Lai Massacre?
They brutally murdered men, women, and children, including babies.
170
What other atrocities were committed by soldiers during the My Lai Massacre?
Rape of women and mutilation of bodies.
171
What happened to some survivors during the My Lai Massacre?
They were herded into ditches and shot point-blank.
172
Who intervened to stop the My Lai Massacre?
Helicopter pilot Hugh Thompson.
173
What was the reaction to Hugh Thompson's actions after the My Lai Massacre?
He was shunned for his bravery in reporting the truth.
174
Which journalist broke the story of the My Lai Massacre?
Seymour Hersh.
175
What was the public reaction to the news of the My Lai Massacre?
The images and details shocked the American public and the world.
176
What was the outcome for the soldiers involved in the My Lai Massacre?
Most were acquitted; only Lieutenant Calley was convicted.
177
What was Lieutenant Calley's sentence for his role in the My Lai Massacre?
Life in prison, but he served just 3 and a half years under house arrest.
178
How long after the My Lai Massacre was it before Hugh Thompson was recognized for his heroism?
Nearly 10 years.
179
The My Lai Massacre serves as a reminder of what?
The atrocities and difficult decisions during wartime.
180
What was the estimated number of Vietnamese directly exposed to Agent Orange?
4.8 million
## Footnote
This exposure led to significant health issues, including an increase in cancer rates.
181
How many children were born with deformities as a result of exposure to Agent Orange?
50,000
## Footnote
These deformities were attributed to the toxic effects of chemicals used during the Vietnam War.
182
Did the U.S. government compensate the Vietnamese people for the effects of Agent Orange?
No
## Footnote
The lack of compensation remains a contentious issue regarding the war's legacy.
183
What was the purpose of Operation Ranch Hand?
To spray toxic chemicals like Agent Orange in Vietnam
## Footnote
The goal was to destroy jungle cover used by enemy forces.
184
What was Agent Blue used for during the Vietnam War?
To destroy crops
## Footnote
This was part of a broader strategy to undermine the enemy's food supply.
185
What is napalm?
A flammable, petroleum jelly-like fluid
## Footnote
It burns at a temperature of 1,200 degrees.
186
What was the intended use of napalm?
To be dropped on naval bases
## Footnote
In practice, it was often used against civilian populations.
187
What were some of the reported impacts of napalm on victims?
Eyelids burned shut and flesh resembling swollen, raw meat
## Footnote
These descriptions illustrate the severe injuries caused by napalm.
188
When were the Paris Peace Accords signed?
January 1973
## Footnote
The Paris Peace Accords aimed to establish peace in Vietnam and end the war.
189
What significant outcome resulted from the Paris Peace Accords?
A ceasefire and the withdrawal of all U.S. combat troops
## Footnote
This agreement was intended to halt hostilities between North and South Vietnam.
190
When did the last U.S. troops leave Vietnam?
March 1973
## Footnote
This marked the end of U.S. military involvement in Vietnam.
191
Did fighting continue after the U.S. withdrawal?
Yes
## Footnote
Fighting persisted between North and South Vietnam despite the ceasefire agreement.
192
What event officially ended the Vietnam War?
The fall of Saigon in April 1975
## Footnote
This event marked the victory of North Vietnam over South Vietnam.
193
True or False: The U.S. was still involved in Vietnam when Saigon fell.
False
## Footnote
By the time Saigon fell, the U.S. had already withdrawn its troops.
