GCSE History Asia

Why did the USA fear communism spreading in Asia after WW2?

China fell to communism (1949), USSR expanding influence, domino theory.

What was the Domino Theory?

The belief that if one country fell to communism, neighbouring countries would follow.

Why did Truman focus on Asia after 1949?

Loss of China → wanted to prevent further communist expansion.

What caused the Korean War?

Korea divided after WW2 (North = communist, South = capitalist), North invaded the South in 1950.

Why did the USA get involved?

Containment, domino theory, UN support.

What happened in 1950 when war began?

North Korean forces pushed the South to Pusan.

What was the Inchon Landing?

UN/US counterattack pushing North Koreans back.

Why did China join?

UN forces approached Chinese border.

What was the result?

Stalemate around 38th Parallel.

What were the outcomes of the Korean War?

• Korea remained divided

• 4 million deaths

• USA strengthened alliances in Asia

• Cold War tensions increased

Why did the USA become involved in Vietnam?

• Domino Theory

• Containment

• Support for South Vietnam

• Gulf of Tonkin incident (1964)

Who was Ho Chi Minh?

Communist leader of North Vietnam.

Why was Ngo Dinh Diem unpopular in the South?

Corrupt, anti-Buddhist policies, unfair government.

What tactics did the Vietcong use?

• Guerrilla warfare

• Booby traps

• Hit-and-run

• Tunnel systems

• Terror against South Vietnamese government workers

What were the main US tactics?

• Search and destroy missions

• Operation Rolling Thunder (bombing)

• Agent Orange / Napalm

• Helicopter warfare

Why did US tactics fail?

• Vietcong blended with civilians

• Harsh tactics turned locals against the USA

• Terrain was difficult

• No clear progress

Why did US public opinion turn against the war?

• Media coverage (body bags, brutality)

• My Lai Massacre

• High casualties

• Cost of war

• Draft (conscription was unfair)

What was Vietnamisation?

Nixon's plan — US troops leave, South Vietnamese army takes over.

When did US troops withdraw?

1973.

What happened in 1975?

What happened in 1975?

What were the consequences of the Vietnam War?

• USA’s reputation damaged

• Huge casualties

• War Powers Act reduced president’s powers

• Vietnam became fully communist