Cuban Missile Crisis and Vietnam War

Flashcards about the Cuban Missile Crisis and Vietnam War

Why did the USA equip Cuban exiles instead of directly invading Cuba?

To avoid direct involvement and becoming a target for the Soviet Union.

Why did the Bay of Pigs invasion fail?

Fidel Castro, anticipating an invasion after the US broke off diplomatic relations, had 20,000 armed groups prepared.

How did the Soviet missiles in Cuba change the Cold War balance of power?

It made the USSR more powerful and the USA more vulnerable, as the missiles had varying ranges covering the majority of American land.

Which options did Kennedy choose to deal with the Cuban Missile Crisis?

An invasion on Cuba and stopping the import of supplies from the USSR (a blockade).

What were the plausible motives for the USSR putting missiles on Cuba?

Testing the USA, gaining an upper hand in the arms race, and bargaining with the USA.

Why can one say there were two Vietnam Wars?

One war for Vietnamese independence from France, and another war between the USA and Vietnam.

What were the consequences for France as a result of the First Vietnam War?

France lost over 3,000 soldiers and had over 8,000 captured after being defeated by Viet Minh forces. Vietnam was divided into North and South at the 1954 peace conference.

What policy did the USA apply to Vietnam, and what were they determined to do?

The USA prevented elections, fearing a communist victory, and aimed to resist the spread of communism throughout Asia. They supported Ngo Dinh Diem to establish the Republic of South Vietnam.

What was the Viet Cong?

A movement increasing anti-government sentiment, including opponents from both North and South Vietnam, with support among peasants.

How did the Viet Cong use guerilla tactics?

Retreat when the enemy attacks, raid enemy camps, attack when the enemy tires, and pursue when the enemy retreats.

How was the Vietnam War broadcasted to the American public?

Through television, radio, newspapers, and photographs sent back to the USA.

What disadvantages did the USA face due to Viet Cong guerilla tactics?

The Viet Cong blended into the civilian population, used tunnels, and employed terror tactics. USA airpower was limited, and search and destroy tactics led to civilian casualties.

To what extent was the Cuban Missile Crisis a success for the American policy of containment?

It was successful as it highlighted the weaknesses of communism, portraying it negatively and increasing anti-communist views; the missiles were withdrawn.

What were some key events and figures related to the Cuban Revolution?

The Castro brothers and Che Guevara took over from Batista, establishing a socialist/communist government. America bought tobacco and sugar from Cuba.

What was the Bay of Pigs Invasion, and what was the result?

A failed invasion attempt by trained Cuban exiles sent by the US government to overthrow Castro. It ruined Kennedy's image, and Castro turned to the USSR for trade.

How did the Cuban Missile Crisis unfold after the USSR placed missiles in Cuba?

Kennedy responded with a blockade/quarantine. Diplomacy ensued, and the USSR removed missiles from Cuba in return for the removal of missiles from Turkey and a promise not to invade Cuba.

Why might one agree with the statement that US tactics in Vietnam had mixed results?

While tactics like bombing damaged North Vietnam, chemical weapons and search and destroy tactics impacted US troops and civilians negatively.

What was the Tet Offensive?

A major offensive launched by the Communists attacking over 100 cities and military targets, aiming to recruit South Vietnamese civilians, but it ultimately failed.

What was the My Lai Massacre and why was it shocking to the American public?

US troops killed hundreds of unarmed civilians in the village of My Lai. It revealed the brutality of the war and contradicted official narratives.

What did President Nixon mean by 'Vietnamization' and 'Peace with Honor'?

Vietnamization meant building up Vietnamese forces to allow US troop withdrawal. 'Peace with Honor' meant achieving peace while preserving US prestige.

What were some reasons why the US lost the Vietnam War?

Superior Viet Cong tactics, unfamiliar terrain, growing anti-war sentiment in the US, cultural misunderstandings, and undertrained US troops were all factors.

What were some key tactics and strategies used during the Vietnam War?

Guerilla tactics, the Ho Chi Minh Trail for supplies, Napalm and Agent Orange for deforestation and tunnel exposure, and search and destroy missions.