Chapter 19:  The Vietnam War  (1954 - 1975)

Coming out of World War II the United States took a strong policy of containment against communism around the world.  With the Marshall Plan, the Bay of Pigs Invasion, and the Korean War, the United States was using extensive amounts of military and monetary resources to ensure that democracy remained strong.  With backing from China and the Soviet Union, the small southeast Asian nation of Vietnam threatened that very goal of the United States.  Truman's initial decision to become involved due to the "domino theory" was continued by the next four president and it greatly divided our nation.  

Throughout this chapter the following topics will be addressed:  Going to War in Vietnam, Vietnam Divides the Nation, and The War Winds Down.      

Chapter Resources

Guerrilla Warfare & Opposition

The TET Offensive

1968:  A Year of Turmoil

Nixon's Presidential Inauguration:  1969

Despair of Vietnam War Effort

Cambodia - Kent State Protests - Hard Hat Protests

Nixon Moves to End the War:  Linkage

The U.S. Pulls Out of Vietnam

Vietnam's Legacy