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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.Ho Declares Independence of Vietnam.
British Forces Land in Saigon, Return Authority to French. -
Lt. Col. A. Peter Dewey, head of American OSS mission, was killed by Vietminh troops while driving a jeep to the airport. Reports later indicated that his death was due to a case of mistaken identity -- he had been mistaken for a Frenchman.
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France recognizes Vietnam as a "free state" within the French Union. French troops replace Chinese in the North.
Negotiations Between French and Vietminh Breakdown.Indochina War Begins: Following months of steadily deteriorating relations, the Democratic Republic of Vietnam launches its first consorted attack against the French. -
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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Britain, France, and United States covertly urge Diem to respect Geneva accords and conduct discussions with the North.,Diem defeats Bao Dai in rigged election and proclaims himself President of Republic of Vietnam.
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The US Military Assistance Advisor Group (MAAG) assumes responsibility, from French, for training South Vietnamese forces.
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Communist insurgent activity in South Vietnam begins. Guerrillas assassinate more than 400 South Vietnamese officials. Thirty-seven armed companies are organized along the Mekong Delta.
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North Vietnam forms Group 559 to begin infiltrating cadres and weapons into South Vietnam via the Ho Chi Minh Trail. The Trail will become a strategic target for future military attacks.
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John F. Kennedy narrowly defeats Richard Nixon for the presidency.
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400 guerillas attack village in Kienhoa Province, and are defeated by South Vietnamese troops.
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Following a lengthy period of debate and discussion, North Vietnamese and American negotiators agree on a location and start date of peace talks. Talks are slated to begin in Paris on May 10 with W. Averell Harriman representing the United States, and former Foreign Minister Xuan Thuy heading the North Vietnamese delegation.
