Vietnam Dbq Analysis

There was a multitude of occurrences that helped to begin the Vietnam war, most notably: the spread of communism through areas of Southeast Asia, including China and Korea, the establishment of the Viet Cong in South Vietnam, the election of President Ngo Dinh Diem, and Congress’s decision to give President Johnson utmost authority over the military. The importance of Southeast Asia’s susceptibility to communism is demonstrated when, in Document B, McGeorge Bundy says, “It is recommended that you make a Presidential decision that the U.S. will use … military force against North Vietnam… this basic Presidential decision is recommended on these premises… the U.S. cannot tolerate the loss of Southeast Asia to Communism.” When this document was …show more content…
The election of President Ngo Dinh Diem was one of the major causes of this “invasion,” and, thus, a major cause of the Vietnam War. The protection of the Republic of Vietnam (South) from Communism was the basis of the entire American campaign in Vietnam. Thus, Americans needed for Ngo Din Diem to be a strong leader and to represent democracy as a mighty and forceful government …show more content…
However, Diem was not the just and strong leader that the Americans so hoped for. His cruel and oppressive policies opened the Republic of Vietnam to Communism, thus creating key tension in America, ultimately leading to their involvement. In August 1964, Congress gave President Lyndon Banes Johnson their support in whatever he chose to do concerning Vietnam, only severing this unwavering loyal once President Johnson deems it