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Diet Bien Phu
The Battle at Diet Bien Phu leaves the French defeated by Vietnam. -
Geneva Accord
Vietnam signs the Geneva Accord, which splits the counrty into two separate countries. North Vietnam being communist, and South Vietnam being supported by the United States. -
Period: to
Ho Chi Minh Trail
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The United States becomes actively involved in Vietnam
President John F. Kennedy sends troops to South Vietnam. -
Attack in Gulf of Tonkin
South Vietnam attacks two small North Vietnamise islands. North Viets then attack the USS Maddox. -
Gulf of Tonkin Resolution is passed
The Gulf of Tonkin Resolution gave President Lyndon Johnson more authority in the actions being taken in Vietnam. -
Tet Offensive
A massive attack on South Vietnam during the Vietnam New Years festival called the Tet. This attack hit 36 major cities and towns in South Vietnam. -
My Lai Massacre
Lt. William Calley ordered his troops on a "search and destroy" mission in the village of My Lai. This mission turned into a massacre of over 300 unarmed civilians including women, children, and the elderly. Calley was eventually sentenced to life in prision, but was let out after many appeals. -
President Nixon takes office
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Operation Menu
Nixon commands US troops to invade Cambodia, where supply centers were set up by North Vietnam. -
Nixon announces that 25,000 troops will be withdrawn immediately
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Cease Fire
Peace talks finally let to a cease-fire. Unfortunately, this agreement didn't last and once US combat soldiers left battle began again. -
Last American Combat Soldiers Leave Vietnam
The last US troops combat soldiers leave, leaving behind some marines and military advisors. After the troops left, fighting began again but the US did not return. -
South Vietnam Surrenders
South Vietnam is forced to surrender to the North, and they enter Saigon.
