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Explain why opposition in the USA to the Vietnam War increased in the years 1964–73 - Edexcel - GCSE History - Question 2 - 2022 - Paper 1
Question 2
Explain why opposition in the USA to the Vietnam War increased in the years 1964–73. You may use the following in your answer: • My Lai Massacre, 1968 • Kent State ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Explain why opposition in the USA to the Vietnam War increased in the years 1964–73 - Edexcel - GCSE History - Question 2 - 2022 - Paper 1
Step 1
My Lai Massacre, 1968
Answer
The My Lai Massacre, which occurred in March 1968, was a significant event that contributed to rising opposition to the Vietnam War. During this incident, U.S. soldiers killed between 347 and 504 unarmed South Vietnamese civilians, including women, children, and the elderly, under the command of Lieutenant William Calley.
The graphic images and reports of this atrocity were widely published in the media, leading to an outcry from the American public. The brutality of the massacre shocked many, raising moral concerns about U.S. involvement in Vietnam. It sparked protests and increased anti-war sentiment, especially among college students and political activists.
Step 2
Kent State University, 1970
Answer
The Kent State University shooting on May 4, 1970, further escalated opposition to the Vietnam War. During a protest against the invasion of Cambodia, National Guardsmen opened fire on students, killing four and injuring nine others. This incident highlighted the growing discontent and fear associated with the war, as students felt that their safety was compromised by government actions.
The event drew national attention and led to widespread protests on college campuses, as students rallied against what they perceived as an unjust war. The image of students being killed during a peace protest galvanized public opinion, making many question U.S. policies in Vietnam and the broader implications of the war.
Step 3
Additional Information
Answer
Beyond these pivotal events, several factors fueled opposition to the Vietnam War during this period. Many Americans were increasingly skeptical of government narratives about the war's progress, particularly after the publication of the Pentagon Papers in 1971, which revealed that the government had misled the public about the war's objectives and reality.
Moreover, the anti-war movement grew significantly, characterized by protests, demonstrations, and the rise of influential figures and organizations advocating for peace. The portrayal of the war on television, including graphic images of combat and civilian casualties, helped to shift public opinion against U.S. involvement in Vietnam.
As the war continued to escalate in terms of casualties and controversy, the opposition became more organized and vocal, playing a crucial role in shaping public perception and policy decisions.