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Following the surrender of Japan to Allied forces, Ho Chi Minh and his People's Congress create the National Liberation Committee of Vietnam to form a provisional government. Japan transfers all power to Ho's Vietminh.
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France recognizes Vietnam as a "free state" within the French Union. French troops replace Chinese in the North.
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Following months of steadily deteriorating relations, the Democratic Republic of Vietnam launches its first consorted attack against the French.
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French General Etienne Valluy attempts, and fails, to wipe out the Vietminh in one stroke.
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Bao Dai and President Vincent Auriol of France sign the Elysee Agreement. As part of the agreement the French pledge to assist in the building of a national anti-Communist army.
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The United States sends $15 million dollars in military aid to the French for the war in Indochina. Included in the aid package is a military mission and military advisors.
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A force of 40,000 heavily armed Vietminh lay seige to the French garrison at Dienbienphu. Using Chinese artillery to shell the airstrip, the Vietminh make it impossible for French supplies to arrive by air. It soon becomes clear that the French have met their match.
