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Explain why the Vietnam War escalated under President Johnson in the years 1963-68 - Edexcel - GCSE History - Question 2 - 2021 - Paper 1
Question 2
Explain why the Vietnam War escalated under President Johnson in the years 1963-68. You may use the following in your answer: - Gulf of Tonkin - Ho Chi Minh T... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Explain why the Vietnam War escalated under President Johnson in the years 1963-68 - Edexcel - GCSE History - Question 2 - 2021 - Paper 1
Step 1
Gulf of Tonkin
Answer
The Gulf of Tonkin incident in August 1964 was pivotal. Allegations were made that North Vietnamese boats attacked U.S. naval vessels. This event provided President Johnson with the justification needed to escalate U.S. involvement in Vietnam. Congress passed the Gulf of Tonkin Resolution, which allowed Johnson to increase military presence without a formal declaration of war, effectively broadening U.S. engagement in the conflict.
Step 2
Ho Chi Minh Trail
Answer
The Ho Chi Minh Trail was crucial for North Vietnam's supply lines. It facilitated the movement of troops and materials into South Vietnam. Johnson's administration viewed this as a significant threat, prompting further military action. Airstrikes against the trail were intensified as part of a strategy to cut off supplies to the Viet Cong and limit their capability, which in turn escalated U.S. military commitment.
Step 3
Additional Information
Answer
Besides the mentioned factors, domestic political pressures and the broader context of the Cold War influenced Johnson's decision-making. He feared the loss of South Vietnam to communism could lead to a 'domino effect' in Southeast Asia. Johnson's administration was committed to the containment policy, aiming to prevent further spread of communism, which drove the escalation of U.S. military resources in Vietnam.