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THE EXTENSION OF THE COLD WAR: CASE STUDY – VIETNAM The military tactics applied by the United States of America succeeded in defeating the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War between 1963 and 1975 - NSC History - Question 4 - 2024 - Paper 1
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THE EXTENSION OF THE COLD WAR: CASE STUDY – VIETNAM The military tactics applied by the United States of America succeeded in defeating the Viet Cong during the Vie... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:THE EXTENSION OF THE COLD WAR: CASE STUDY – VIETNAM The military tactics applied by the United States of America succeeded in defeating the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War between 1963 and 1975 - NSC History - Question 4 - 2024 - Paper 1
Step 1
Introduction: Stance on the Statement
Answer
In this essay, I partially agree with the statement that the military tactics applied by the United States succeeded in defeating the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War. While certain military strategies did inflict significant losses on the Viet Cong, they ultimately failed to achieve the long-term goal of military victory due to the resilience of the Viet Cong, their guerrilla tactics, and changing public sentiment regarding the war.
Step 2
Military Tactics: Background Conditions
Answer
The conditions before the Vietnam War were critical in shaping military tactics. The division of Vietnam and the formation of the Viet Cong provided fertile ground for a protracted conflict. The United States aimed to contain communism, fearing that a loss in Vietnam would lead to a 'domino effect' in Southeast Asia.
Step 3
USA's Military Involvement
Answer
The USA’s first significant military involvement began in the early 1960s when advisors were sent to support the South Vietnamese government. This escalated with the deployment of combat troops and military operations under President Lyndon B. Johnson, notably using tactics like Rolling Thunder and increased aerial bombardment.
Step 4
Guerrilla Tactics Used by the Viet Cong
Answer
The Viet Cong effectively employed guerrilla warfare tactics, such as utilizing the countryside for cover and engaging in surprise attacks. Their ability to blend in with local populations made it increasingly difficult for American forces to differentiate between combatants and civilians.
Step 5
Step 6
Consequences and Public Sentiment
Answer
U.S. military actions, such as the My Lai Massacre, sparked outrage both domestically and internationally, significantly shifting public perception against the war. By the early 1970s, anti-war sentiment and protests grew, ultimately leading to calls for de-escalation.
Step 7
Conclusion: Overall Evaluation
Answer
In conclusion, while U.S. military tactics had certain short-term successes against the Viet Cong, the failure to achieve a definitive military victory and the eventual withdrawal from Vietnam by 1975 illustrate a significant limitation of those tactics. Their inability to adapt to guerrilla warfare and the changing political landscape ultimately negated the effectiveness of military actions.