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Japan Surrenders to the Allies
Political
After Japan's defeat in WWII, it surrendered its control of Vietnam. This led to the division of Vietnam, with Ho Chi Minh declaring independence in the North. This created political tension between communist North Vietnam and the anti-communist South, setting the stage for future conflict. -
Geneva Accords Divide Vietnam
Political
The Geneva Accords ended French colonial rule in Indochina and divided Vietnam at the 17th parallel into North and South. This division established two separate governments, creating and political conditions that led to war. -
Gulf of Tonkin Incident
Military
North Vietnamese forces allegedly attacked U.S. Navy ships. In response, Congress passed the Gulf of Tonkin Resolution, allowing President Johnson to escalate U.S. military involvement. This marked a major shift in American military action in Vietnam. -
Tet Offensive
Military
The Viet Cong launched surprises attacks on South Vietnamese cities during the Vietnamese New Year (Tet). Although the U.S. and South Vietnamese forces repelled the offensive, it shocked Americans and reduced public support for the war. -
Vietnamization Begins
Political
President Nixon announced "Vietnamization" a policy to gradually withdraw American troops and shift the burden of war to South Vietnamese forces. This marked a political shift in U.S. war strategy and aimed to reduce American involvement. -
U.S. Invades Cambodia
Military
U.S. and South Vietnamese forces entered Cambodia to destroy Viet Cong supply lines. The invasion sparked widespread protests in the U.S. and intensified anti-war sentiment, showing how military action impacted public opinion and domestic politics. -
Paris Peace Accords Signed
Political
The United States and North Vietnam signed the Paris Peace Accords, officially ending U.S. involvement in the war. Although fighting continued in Vietnam, the accords were a major political step toward ending the conflict. -
Vietnam Veterans Memorial Dedication
Political
The memorial was built in Washington, D.C., to honor the over 58,000 Americans who died in the Vietnam War. It symbolized national healing and recognition of the political and social impact of war on the U.S.