Eisenhower x Vietnam

Domino Theory

The belief that if one country falls to communism, neighboring countries will also fall in succession.

Military Assistance Advisory Group (MAAG)

A group established to provide military assistance and advice to foreign nations, such as the one set up in Saigon by the US.

NSC 68

A document outlining US national security policy, including the concept of a defensive perimeter against communism.

Truman Doctrine

A policy of providing aid to countries threatened by communism, as exemplified by Truman's support for France in Indochina.

Strategic Hamlet Operation

A program aimed at relocating Vietnamese villagers from communist strongholds to prevent their support for the Viet Minh.

SEATO

Southeast Asia Treaty Organization, formed to counter communist influence in the region and support anti-communist governments like Diem's in South Vietnam.

Hearts & Minds Campaign

A strategy to win over the support of local populations through political, economic, and social reforms to combat communism.

Pathet Lao

A communist political movement in Laos that Eisenhower saw as a threat and sought to counter through support for non-communist forces.

Geneva Accords

Agreements reached in 1954 to end the First Indochina War, including the division of Vietnam at the 17th parallel and the promise of elections in 1956.

South Vietnamese Army of the Republic of Vietnam (AVRN)

Special forces established with US support to combat communist insurgency in South Vietnam.

Eisenhower's Military Stance

Eisenhower believed in the necessity of military force to achieve US goals in Vietnam, showing a more skeptical view towards diplomatic solutions compared to Kennedy.

Eisenhower's Public Support Strategy

Eisenhower maintained public support by providing aid to South Vietnam without large troop commitments, minimizing casualties and opposition to the war.

Eisenhower's Bipartisan Approach

Eisenhower's Vietnam policy enjoyed bipartisan support, demonstrating effective leadership through collaboration with both Democrats and Republicans.

Eisenhower's Economic Benefits

Eisenhower's economic aid to South Vietnam boosted the US economy, creating opportunities for American businesses and enhancing domestic stability.

Eisenhower's National Security Image

Eisenhower's firm stance against communism in Vietnam strengthened his image as a defender of national security interests, garnering public support.

Eisenhower's Electoral Success

Eisenhower's handling of Vietnam contributed to his electoral victories, showcasing his adept management of international affairs and resonating with the electorate.

Eisenhower's Alliance Strengthening

Eisenhower's support for South Vietnam bolstered alliances with anti-communist countries, enhancing the US strategic position in Southeast Asia.

Eisenhower's Regional Stability Focus

Eisenhower aimed to maintain regional stability by preventing communist takeover in Vietnam, crucial for protecting US interests in the area.

Eisenhower's Economic Initiatives

Eisenhower's administration funded projects like the Thủ Đức Agricultural School and Vung Tau Oil Fields to boost Vietnam's agricultural and oil sectors.

Eisenhower's Military Operations

Eisenhower oversaw Operation Passage to Freedom and supported the French military, strengthening South Vietnamese forces and implementing a containment strategy.

Eisenhower's Political Support for South Vietnam

Eisenhower backed Diem's rise to power, provided military aid, and supported programs like the Strategic Hamlet Program to establish a non-communist government.

Eisenhower's Failures

Eisenhower faced criticism for involvement in a "quagmire," challenges with the Strategic Hamlet Program, and political instability in South Vietnam.

Eisenhower's Economic Failures

Eisenhower's policies faced challenges in land reform, industrial growth, agricultural modernization, corruption, and human capital development in Vietnam.

Eisenhower's Military Failures

Eisenhower's policies struggled with the Battle of Dien Bien Phu, inadequate training, limited success in suppressing insurgency, and failure to prevent division and conflict in Vietnam.

Weaknesses in South Vietnam's Government

Despite US support, the South Vietnamese government under Diem lacked strong institutions and broad-based support, facing issues of corruption and lack of legitimacy.

Repressive Measures

Actions taken by the Diem regime to suppress political dissent and opposition, resulting in widespread human rights abuses.

Communist Insurgents

Groups opposing the Diem regime, positioning themselves as champions of the people against a corrupt and oppressive government.

Ineffective Counterinsurgency Strategies

Struggles faced by South Vietnamese forces in effectively combating the communist insurgency despite support from the United States.

Viet Cong

Insurgent group utilizing guerrilla tactics and local support to launch successful attacks and gain influence in rural areas.

Growing Unpopularity

Increase in public discontent towards the South Vietnamese government due to its failures and shortcomings.