4.3 | Vietnam War Timeline

By zksan142

  • Japan Surrenders to the Allies

    Japan Surrenders to the Allies
    Description:
    Japan's WWII surrender leads to their withdrawal from Vietnam. Ho Chi Minh declares independence, forming the Democratic Republic of Vietnam, sparking tensions with French forces.
    Category:
    Political
    Category Explanation:
    Political event due to new government formation and shift in national control.

  • Dien Bien Phu Falls

    Dien Bien Phu Falls
    Description:
    Viet Minh defeat French at Dien Bien Phu, leading to Geneva Accords, dividing Vietnam into communist North and anti-communist South.
    Category:
    Military
    Category Explanation:
    Military event due to decisive battle ending French rule.

  • Diem Leads South Vietnam

    Diem Leads South Vietnam
    Description:
    Ngo Dinh Diem becomes South Vietnam's leader, refusing reunification elections to black Communism, with U.S. support.
    Category:
    Political
    Category Explanation:
    Political event as it established a U.S.-backed anti-communist government.

  • Gulf of Tonkin Resolution

    Gulf of Tonkin Resolution
    Description:
    Alleged North Vietnamese attacks lead to U.S. Congress grants Johnson power to escalate military action against communism.
    Category:
    Political
    Category Explanation:
    Political event due to legislative decision expanding U.S. war involvement.

  • Operation Rolling Thunder

    Operation Rolling Thunder
    Description:
    U.S. begins bombing North Vietnam to weaken communist forces, escalating military involvement.
    Category:
    Military
    Category Explanation:
    Military event due to large-scale bombing to disrupt communist operations.

  • Tet Offensive

    Tet Offensive
    Description:
    Viet Cong and North Vietnamese launch surprise attacks on South Vietnam, shifting U.S. public opinion against the war.
    Category:
    Military
    Category Explanation:
    Military event due to major communist offensive.

  • Paris Peace Accords

    Paris Peace Accords
    Description:
    U.S., North and South Vietnam, and Viet Cong signs Accords for ceasefire and U.S. troops withdrawal, though fighting persists.
    Category:
    Political
    Category Explanation:
    Political event due to diplomatic agreement to end U.S. involvement.

  • Vietnam Veterans Memorial

    Vietnam Veterans Memorial
    Description:
    Vietnam Veterans Memorial dedicated in D.C., honoring U.S. soldiers and reflecting on the anti-communism effort.
    Category:
    Politcal
    Category Explanation:
    Political event as it symbolizes national remembrance and reconciliation.