FOREWORD

In 1945, following Japan’s defeat at the end of WWII, Ho Chi Minh declares Vietnam an independent republic. The United States, fearing Communism, gives support to the restoration of French rule. Following outbreaks of conflict, America gives aid to France and by 1953, is providing 80 percent of the cost of the French war effort. In 1954, pressured by his communist allies, Ho Chi Minh accepts a temporary division at the 17^th parallel. Neither the U.S nor the American backed leader, Ngo Dihn Diem in the South signed the accords. Support for Ho Chi Minh increases and in 1960, the Communist led Viet Cong is organised.

By mid 1963, the situation in southern Vietnam becomes critical and Diem is overthrown during a military coup. After a Viet Cong attack in February 1965 on a U.S barracks in Southern Vietnam, 50,000 U.S troops are sent to the region and this figure is soon increased. By 1967, the war has become a stalemate, but Hanoi plans a new offensive, which proves to be a turning point. Attacks begin on January 30^th 1968, leading to the deaths of 40,000 Viet Cong. This becomes know as the Tet Offensive, named after the Vietnamese holiday on which it occurred.

President Johnson orders an additional 206,000 U.S. troops into Vietnam, followed by a further 20,000, bringing the total to 549,000 in the theatre of conflict. Johnson restricts bombing above the 20^th parallel in an attempt to start negotiations and withdraws from an election bid. The Republicans nominate Nixon following Johnson’s withdrawal. During his election campaign, Nixon promises to end the war in Vietnam. He finally succeeds in 1975. By this time, the American death toll had reached 58,000. Another 2,500 were listed MIA...

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