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Hiroshima
The United States drops an atomic bomb—the first to be used in warfare—on Hiroshima, killing 75,000 people instantly, and injuring more than 100,000. -
Ho Chi Minh Leads Viet Minh
Emperor Bao Dai surrenders leadership to Ho Chi Minh and the Viet Minh. -
First Indochina War
The Viet Minh attacks French forces in northern Vietnam, the Franco-Vietnamese War begins. -
Truman Reelected
President Harry S. Truman is elected to a second term. -
French Surrender
The French surrender to the Viet Minh. -
Vietnam Emigration
Some 850,000 North Vietnamese, mostly Catholics, emigrate to South Vietnam; 80,000 residents of the South, primarily Viet Minh supporters, move to the North. -
Guerrilla War
Ex-Viet Minh forces in the South organize and begin a campaign of guerrilla warfare against Diem's administration. -
Kennedy Elected
Democrat John F. Kennedy defeats Republican candidate Richard M. Nixon to become the 35th president of the United States. -
Kennedy Assassinated
President John F. Kennedy is shot and killed in Dallas, Texas. -
First North Vietnam Bombing
The U.S. bombs North Vietnam for the first time.